Chelsea have completed the signing of France defender Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace. The Premier League club confirmed the move on Thursday.
The 26 year old has signed a contract that will keep him at Stamford Bridge until 2032. Reports say Chelsea paid £52 million for the defender.
Lacroix said he was proud to join the London club and is eager to help the team win trophies.
“I am really happy to be part of this beautiful club. Everyone knows the legend of Chelsea and its tradition of winning. To be part of that is a proud moment,” he said.
He also praised head coach Enzo Maresca after speaking with him before the move.
“When I spoke with the manager, I saw that we have the same direction and desire for this club. We want to win. When you see the quality of the players here and everything around the club, it is something we can achieve. The ambition is to lift trophies and I cannot wait to contribute.”
Lacroix arrives after an impressive two seasons with Crystal Palace. He made 98 appearances in all competitions and helped the club win the UEFA Conference League, the FA Cup and the Community Shield.
Last season, he played 55 matches. He scored three goals and provided three assists.
The defender came through the youth academy at Sochaux before moving to German club VfL Wolfsburg in 2020. He spent four years there and made 130 appearances before joining Crystal Palace in 2024.
His strong performances in England earned him his first call up to the France national team earlier this year. He later played three matches at the FIFA World Cup as France finished fourth.
Chelsea hope Lacroix will strengthen their defence as they prepare for the new Premier League season.
