Chelsea complete deal for Crystal Palace and France defender Maxence Lacroix

Lacroix is fifth signing of busy summer for club.

France's Maxence Lacroix during the FIFA World Cup 2026 bronze final at the Miami Stadium. Pic: Martin Rickett/PA Wire.

Maxence Lacroix has joined Chelsea from Crystal Palace to become the club’s fifth signing of the summer so far. The France international, who won the FA Cup and Conference League with Palace, has been the Blues’ main defensive target of the window.

Lacroix, 26, signs a six-year deal with Xabi Alonso’s side. “I am really happy to be part of this beautiful club,” said Lacroix, who played three times for France at the World Cup, including in their 6-4 bronze medal match defeat to England.