Why Xabi Alonso sees Maxence Lacroix as Chelsea's new defensive leader | OneFootball

Chelsea have signed Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace on a long-term deal to 2032, a move viewed as central to Xabi Alonso’s defensive rebuild. The reported £52 million (€60 million) fee is among their biggest recent defensive outlays.

Transfermarkt reports that Alonso made the 26-year-old a priority for his system and that Wolfsburg inserted a sell-on clause in his 2024 switch to Palace, citing his pace, one-on-one strength and comfort in a back three shown under Oliver Glasner at both clubs.

That profile suggests he could take on duties similar to Edmond Tapsoba’s at Bayer Leverkusen under Alonso, starting attacks from deep while combining physical presence with composure on the ball. Chelsea believe he has comparable qualities.

The move also highlights Wolfsburg’s recruitment record. They signed Lacroix from Sochaux for €5 million in 2020, then sold him to Palace in 2024 for a package worth up to €21 million. Chelsea have now paid almost three times that, reflecting his rise since leaving Germany.

As Alonso reshapes his squad, Lacroix is expected to become the organiser of a remodelled back line, potentially a pillar of the manager’s project. Whether Alonso matches the heights he achieved with Leverkusen remains to be seen.

Source: BuLi News