“He loves to defend” — Alonso says Lacroix’s leadership will have a “big, direct impact” at Chelsea | OneFootball

Xabi Alonso has backed Maxence Lacroix to become a leader at Chelsea, following his £52m arrival from Crystal Palace.

Lacroix hascompleted his move to Chelsea with the defender signing a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge. He becomes Chelsea's fourth signing of the summer and reinforces the Blues' backline under new head coach Alonso.

Alonso knows the 26-year-old from his time in the Bundesliga and has been impressed with Lacroix's rise since arriving in thePremier League two years ago.

The centre-back won the FA Cup, Community Shield and Europa Conference League at Palace, while breaking into the France national side.

Alonso has no doubts that Lacroix will become a central figure in his Chelsea side this season. Lacroix will link up with Chelsea following the club's return from a pre-season tour of Australia and Asia.

"I know Maxence from my time in the Bundesliga," Alonso toldchelseafc.com, ahead of the club's Sydney Super Cup fixture against Tottenham tomorrow.

"I think his progression and adaptation in thePremier League has been fantastic – not just on the pitch but in terms of personality and leadership, he also has these attributes.

"He is a very reliable player who will give us power in the defensive line. He has an assurance that will have a big, direct impact on the team, I'm sure. So it’s a great signing for now and for the future.

"He has a strong personality, he is mature, and he wants to win. He has a winner’s mentality and also loves to defend. That is something I like as well."