Crystal Palace are preparing to lose Maxence Lacroix after Chelsea moved close to finalising a £52million deal. A move taking Maxence Lacroix to Chelsea is now expected to progress quickly, with the defender scheduled to undergo his medical today.
The France international is set to sign a six-year contract until 2032 if he completes the medical successfully. Palace are therefore moving forward with plans to replace one of Pierre Sage’s most important defenders.
Lacroix joined Palace from Wolfsburg for €18million in August 2024, with a further €3million available in add-ons. Selling him for around £52million would secure a substantial profit following two excellent seasons at Selhurst Park.
Sky Sports previously confirmed that Chelsea had opened talks with Palace after identifying Lacroix as their priority defensive target. Palace maintained a valuation above £50million throughout negotiations.
Maxence Lacroix to Chelsea forces Palace replacement move
Lacroix made 55 appearances last season as Palace won the Community Shield and Europa Conference League. He also represented France at the World Cup, featuring three times during their run to the third-place play-off.
His departure would leave Sage needing another centre-back before the competitive campaign begins. Chrislain Matsima has emerged as the leading candidate, with Chibuike Nwaiwu viewed as an alternative.
ReadCrystalPalace previously reported Palace’s interest in Matsima. The Augsburg defender offers pace, strength and experience in a three-man defensive system.
Palace have also signed Óscar Mingueza, but the Spaniard’s versatility means he should not automatically be viewed as a direct replacement.
The Maxence Lacroix to Chelsea deal represents strong business financially. However, its success will depend on whether Palace can reinvest quickly and avoid beginning the season with a weakened defence.
