Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix has been cleared to undergo a medical with Chelsea as his proposed €60m transfer to Stamford Bridge moves towards completion. The France international is expected to sign a six-year contract with the West London club, according to The Athletic.
David Ornstein reports that Palace have granted the 26-year-old permission to complete medical assessments with Xabi Alonso’s side. The total outlay for the defender is understood to reach €60m, representing a significant investment as the Blues strengthen their defensive options.
Silverware and International Recognition
Lacroix has established himself as one of the Premier League’s most consistent defenders during his time at Selhurst Park. The former Sochaux and Wolfsburg centre-back has featured 98 times across two campaigns for the Eagles, contributing to a successful period that saw the club lift the 2025 Emirates FA Cup, the Community Shield from the same year, and the Conference League title during the 2025-2026 season.
His displays at club level have translated to international recognition. The defender earned a place in Didier Deschamps’ France World Cup squad, underlining his status among Europe’s elite centre-backs.
Career Path
Club records indicate Lacroix first joined the South London outfit in 2014 from Wolfsburg, establishing himself as a key figure in the first team during recent seasons. The Frenchman brings additional experience from his developmental years at Sochaux, combining physical presence with technical ability suited to Alonso’s tactical approach.
Final Steps
The medical examination represents the last major hurdle before the transfer can be formally announced. Should the assessments proceed without issue, Chelsea will secure a proven Premier League defender entering his prime years. The move would also mark another high-profile departure from Palace as they navigate the transfer window following their European success.