Chelsea Football Club have completed the signing of France international defender Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace in a £52 million transfer, strengthening the club’s defensive options ahead of the new Premier League season.

The 26-year-old centre-back has signed a contract with Chelsea until 2032, becoming the club’s third arrival of the summer transfer window as new manager Xabi Alonso continues reshaping the squad.

Also read: FIFA opens Argentina probe after World Cup final

Lacroix arrives at Stamford Bridge after an impressive spell with Crystal Palace, where he became a key figure under manager Oliver Glasner following his move from Bundesliga side Wolfsburg in 2024.

The French defender made 55 appearances across all competitions last season as Palace enjoyed a historic campaign, winning the UEFA Conference League to secure the club’s first major European trophy.

His performances also earned recognition at international level. Lacroix featured three times for France during the 2026 World Cup, including the third-place play-off against England, as Les Bleus finished fourth.

Chelsea’s decision to pursue Lacroix comes after concerns over defensive consistency during a difficult campaign that saw the club finish 10th in the Premier League without a trophy.

The Blues identified the France international as a priority target due to his physical presence, pace and experience, qualities the club believes will add greater stability to its back line.

Lacroix joins Morgan Rogers and Marco Palestra as Chelsea’s summer additions, with the club looking to complement its young core of players including Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo and Levi Colwill with more established figures.

The defender becomes the oldest player signed by Chelsea under the current ownership group, reflecting a shift towards adding greater experience alongside emerging talent.

Negotiations between Chelsea and Crystal Palace took time as both clubs discussed the transfer fee and personal terms, but Lacroix approved the move after France’s World Cup campaign concluded.

The arrival also follows Chelsea’s interest in other defensive options, including former Manchester City defender John Stones and Como’s Jacopo Ramon, before Lacroix emerged as the preferred choice.

Also read: FIFA opens Argentina probe after World Cup final

With the new season approaching, Chelsea will hope Lacroix’s leadership and defensive qualities can help the club return to a stronger position under Alonso’s management.