Maxence Lacroix has completed his move from Crystal Palace to Chelsea, bringing an end to his time at Selhurst Park.
The defender confirmed his arrival at Stamford Bridge after finalising his transfer, describing the move as a proud moment in his career.
“Here at Chelsea we want to win,” Lacroix said.
“I am really happy to be part of this beautiful club. Everyone knows the legend of Chelsea, its tradition of winning, and to be a part of that is a proud moment.”
Lacroix leaves Palace after becoming an important part of Palace’s defence. The Frenchman was a key figure in Oliver Glasner’s system, with his pace and composure making him particularly well-suited to playing in a back three.
His departure leaves Palace with a significant defensive decision ahead of the new season, as Pierre Sage now needs to consider how best to replace a key presence, and whether to replace like-for-like or to look at a new defensive shape based on those players he has at his disposal.
For Chelsea, Lacroix adds further competition in central defence as they continue to strengthen their squad.
For Palace, attention now turns to recruitment and whether the club will move quickly to bring in another defender before the transfer window closes.
