Maxence Lacroix completes move to Chelsea from Crystal Palace
Chelsea have completed the signing of defender Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace, with the move confirmed on 29 July 2026.
The switch brings a further defensive option into the squad as the club prepares for the new Premier League season, and follows a busy summer of incoming and outgoing business at Stamford Bridge.
A heavy workload in 2025
Lacroix was a mainstay for Crystal Palace throughout 2025, featuring in 54 competitive matches and totalling 4,848 minutes on the pitch, figures that reflect his standing as a regular fixture in the side.
The bulk of that workload came in the Premier League, where he made 35 appearances and played 3,087 minutes for Palace. He also featured heavily in the UEFA Europa Conference League, appearing 15 times for 1,395 minutes, in addition to three League Cup outings and a single Community Shield appearance.
Across those matches, the defender contributed three goals, a modest but notable return for a player in his position.
What it means for Chelsea
The arrival adds depth and experience to Chelsea's back line ahead of the campaign, with Lacroix's proven durability at Palace likely to appeal as the club manages a demanding fixture schedule across domestic and European competition.
No further details of the transfer have been disclosed.