Chelsea have completed the signing of France international Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace in a deal worth £52 million, with the centre back becoming the club’s latest addition ahead of the 2026/27 season. Maxence Lacroix, 26, has signed a long-term contract until 2032 and will link up with Xabi Alonso’s squad before the new campaign. In a statement confirming the transfer, Chelsea said: “Chelsea is delighted to announce the signing of France international Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace. Lacroix made 98 appearances across two seasons for Palace after arriving from Bundesliga side Wolfsburg in 2024 for an initial £15.5m. “Welcome to Chelsea, Maxence!”