Maxence Lacroix joins Chelsea from Crystal Palace as Blues' summer spending spree under new manager Xabi Alonso continues
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Updated 30/07/2026 at 15:15 GMT+1
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Maxence Lacroix has signed for Chelsea from Crystal Palace in a deal worth a reported £55 million. The Blues have already brought in Morgan Rogers, Marco Palestra, Geovany Quenda, Denner, Dastan Satpaev and Emmanuel Emegha.
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Lacroix - who, at 26 years of age, is Chelsea's oldest incoming transfer so far this window - helped France to the 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-finals, where they lost to eventual winners Spain.
"Chelsea is delighted to announce the signing of France international Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace," a statement read on the club's official website.
"The 26-year-old defender has agreed a contract at Stamford Bridge until 2032 and will join up with his new Blues team-mates ahead of the 2026/27 campaign."
On his move to Chelsea, Lacroix said: "I am really happy to be part of this beautiful club. Everyone knows the legend of Chelsea, its tradition of winning, and to be a part of that is a proud moment.
"When I spoke with the manager, I saw that we have the same direction and desire for this club.
"We want to win. When you see the quality of the players here, everything we have around the club, it's something that we can achieve. The ambition is to lift trophies, and I can’t wait to contribute."
Lacroix moved to Crystal Palace from Wolfsburg back in 2024, and established himself as a key player for The Eagles, making 70 league appearances during his two years at Selhurst Park.
Chelsea not done in the window
The France international is expected to be the first of a number of new signings at Chelsea in the coming days as The Blues look to add experienced bodies to the squad.
Striker Danny Welbeck is on the cusp of a move to Xabi Alonso's side after The Blues agreed a fee with Brighton & Hove Albion.
Welbeck won't be the only experienced Englishman to make the move to Chelsea either, with Jordan Henderson set to secure a switch across the capital.
Brentford confirmed the 36-year-old's departure on Wednesday, paving the way for a free transfer.
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"I leave Brentford with a lot of gratitude for the opportunity the club gave me, and for the support and care shown to me and my family from day one," Henderson said in a club statement.
"Coming back to the Premier League was really important to me, and Brentford gave me that chance. I’ll always be thankful for that.
"I hope I was able to play my part in helping the team through an important period for the club. We achieved a lot together last season, and it’s something everyone involved should be proud of.
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"Brentford is a special football club. It’s ambitious, progressive and full of good people. From the owners and leadership, to the coaching staff, the players and everyone behind the scenes, it’s been a privilege to be part of it.
"Most of all, I’d like to thank the supporters. Their backing never changed, and the connection they have with the club is clear to see. They care deeply about Brentford and they support the team in the right way every step of the journey.
"Finally, thank you to Matt, Phil, Lee and Keith, every member of staff, and all my team-mates. It’s been a pleasure to work alongside you, and I’ll look back on my time at Brentford with a lot of pride and some great memories."
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