Chelsea Are Expected To Land This Crytal Palace Defender: Good Option For Alonso? | OneFootball

In a recent report, L’Equipe mentioned that Chelsea are expected to land Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix. It has been claimed that the Blues are on the verge of signing the French centre-back for €55m this summer.

Lacroix’s Impressive Form In The Premier League

Lacroix put in a string of solid displays for Crystal Palace on the defensive end of the field in the previous campaign. The 26-year-old featured in 55 matches for the Eagles last season, scoring three times and picking up three assists in multiple competitions.

The French talent is currently one of the best centre-halves in the Premier League. Thus, the Blues would do well to lure him to Stamford Bridge this off-season.

His current contract at Selhurst Park will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it tough for Chelsea to sign him on the cheap later this year.

LONDON, ENGLAND – MAY 10: Maxence Lacroix of Crystal Palace passes the ball during the Premier League match between Crystal Palace and Everton at Selhurst Park on May 10, 2026 in London, England. (Photo by Warren Little/Getty Images)

Will Lacroix Be A Good Option For Chelsea?

Lacroix is a good tackler of the ball and can scan the danger well to secure possession back for his team inside his half. He doesn’t mind putting his foot through the ball when the opposition are on the front foot and is proficient at playing his way out from the back.

Standing at 1.90m, the French sensation is a strong presence in the air as well and doesn’t mind putting his body on the line to block a shot from the opposition when required. He is already quite familiar with the Premier League and won’t take much time to adjust to life at the London club.

We can expect Lacroix to bring more quality and depth to Chelsea boss Xabi Alonso’s defence. He has what it takes to challenge for a regular first-team role at Stamford Bridge next season.

At 26, Lacroix is about to enter his prime, which makes him a decent option for the Blues to consider in this transfer window. The French defensive ace is good enough to help the London outfit compete for a top-four finish in the Premier League over the next few years. However, Alonso should only focus on going for him if he can get him for a fair price before the end of this transfer period.