Chelsea close in on €70m transfer that solves two of Alonso's biggest problems

23 Jul 2026 16:56 BST | 4 min read

Suraj Radia | Editor

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Chelsea are closing in on the signing of Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace in a move that could now solve another one of Xabi Alonso’s major problems in the process.

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Both clubs have been locked in negotiations for Lacroix and a transfer is expected to progress rapidly now that the France international’s participation in the 2026 World Cup has finished, with a deal understood to be close to completion.

Current ETV

Maxence Lacroix

D (C)

C. Palace

Maxence Lacroix

D (C)

C. Palace

ETV Range

€41.8M - €51.1M

Fabrizio Romano confirmed this week that an agreement over personal terms is almost in place, while talks over a fee are progressing, with Palace holding out for around €70 million for their star defender.

Having just broken their club record to sign Morgan Rogers for €138m, Chelsea are reluctant to break the bank to sign Lacroix and they have explored the possibility of sending a player to Palace in exchange.

The Telegraph report that a season-long loan for Axel Disasi has been discussed as part of the deal, with the 28-year-old having no future at Stamford Bridge and hoping to leave Chelsea this summer.

According to Romano, Palace have asked about Disasi’s situation but his inclusion has only been verbally discussed, with there being no guarantee that the Frenchman does become part of the move for Lacroix.

Chelsea aiming to finally resolve Disasi future through Lacroix signing

Lacroix appears to be Chelsea’s top target to strengthen in defence, with the club keen to sign a new centre-back, particularly with Trevoh Chalobah in talks to sign for Como.

© IMAGO - Maxence Lacroix is set to join Chelsea.

Alonso could look to utilise the five defender system that saw him thrive at Bayer Leverkusen, with Lacroix likely to slot in alongside the likes of Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana and Josh Acheampong.

Chelsea also have players such as Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, Aaron Anselmino and Mamadou Sarr, all of whom could compete for a position in the heart of defence.

Consequently, Disasi will not be given an opportunity to revive his career at Chelsea despite a positive loan spell last season at West Ham, with the Blues preferring their younger options.

It remains to be seen whether a deal can be agreed for Disasi to join Palace but Chelsea are determined to finally sell the former Monaco star after many years of struggling to generate any interest in him.

With Disasi still having three years left on his contract, a permanent move may be possible but even getting his wages off the books with a loan to Palace will prove a welcome relief for Chelsea ahead of the new season.