Official: Chelsea complete signing of Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix

Updated: 30 Jul 2026 11:17 BST | 4 min read

Maxence Lacroix, Crystal Palace, 2025/26 — © IMAGO

Cameron Smith | Digital Content Producer

Accredited sports journalist covering football since 2020

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Chelsea have officially completed the signing of Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix for a reported transfer fee of €60 million.

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The France international has signed a six-year contract at Stamford Bridge, valid until 2032, and he is expected to immediately become Levi Colwill’s partner at the heart of defence in west London.

Current ETV

Maxence Lacroix

D (C)

C. Palace

Maxence Lacroix

D (C)

C. Palace

ETV Range

€41.8M - €51.1M

Lacroix made 98 appearances across two seasons at Crystal Palace, following his arrival from Bundesliga side Wolfsburg, and he played a key role for the Eagles as they won the UEFA Conference League, the FA Cup and the Community Shield during his time at the club.

He played three times for France at the 2026 World Cup and his move to Stamford Bridge comes following weeks of negotiations between the Blues and Crystal Palace.

Upon confirmation of his switch to Chelsea, Lacroix told the club’s official website: “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.”

The talk of the town. 📻 pic.twitter.com/Eix5531jhy
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 30, 2026

Maxence Lacroix joins Chelsea

Following the arrival of Lacroix, Chelsea now have x senior central defenders on their books, although the likes of Trevoh Chalobah, Axel Disasi and Benoit Badiashile are expected to be sold on permanent deals before the end of the summer transfer window.

In a post on his official Instagram account, Lacroix said: "Dear Palace fans, it has been a true privilege to wear the Eagles shirt and to be part of this club’s history.

"The memories I will cherish forever are the love, the unwavering support, and the incredible moments of success we shared together. I have enjoyed some truly unforgettable seasons with you.

"From day one until my very last, I have always felt at home. Selhurst Park will forever hold a special place in my heart, and I already look forward to seeing you all again.

"This is simply my way of saying thank you. Thank you for who you all are and for everything you have given me."