Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix to undergo medical with Chelsea | OneFootball

Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix is set to undergo a medical before completing his move to Chelsea.

The Blues have agreed a deal worth around £55 million for the 26-year-old, who is expected to sign a long-term contract until 2032.

Lacroix has been one of Chelsea’s leading defensive targets throughout the summer as manager Xabi Alonso looks to reshape his squad ahead of the new Premier League season.

The former Wolfsburg centre-back has established himself as one of the Premier League’s standout defenders since joining Palace in 2024.

He made 55 appearances in all competitions last season and played a pivotal role in the most successful period in Palace’s history.

Lacroix helped Oliver Glasner’s side lift the FA Cup before winning the Europa Conference League.

His performances earned him a place in France’s World Cup squad, where he featured three times during the tournament.

Chelsea believe his pace, physicality and ability to defend aggressively suit Alonso’s preferred style, with the club eager to strengthen a back line that has undergone significant changes this summer.

Lacroix’s arrival will intensify competition for places in central defence.

Chelsea are open to offers for several defenders before the transfer window closes, with Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile and Trevoh Chalobah among the players whose futures are uncertain.

Palace have already begun planning for life after Lacroix.

Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima has emerged as the club’s preferred replacement, although Trabzonspor’s Chibuike Nwaiwu is also being monitored if negotiations fail to progress.