Chelsea have sealed a £43 million deal to sign Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix, according to Italian journalist Orazio Accomando.
Accomando reports that a formal announcement is expected to follow in the coming days, bringing the transfer saga to a swift conclusion.
The move comes as Chelsea step up their recruitment activity ahead of Xabi Alonso’s official unveiling as manager next month.
Chelsea have been busy in the transfer market, having already reached a verbal agreement to sign Marco Palestra from Atalanta earlier in the window.
The centre-back position has been identified as a key priority this summer, having been a source of concern for the club over the past three seasons.
Chelsea’s defensive instability was plain to see last season, with constant rotation across the backline contributing to significant inconsistency in their results.
Trevoh Chalobah was their most reliable option, but Levi Colwill was restricted to just three Premier League appearances after suffering a cruciate ligament injury in pre-season.
Wesley Fofana missed matches through injury and disciplinary issues, while Tosin Adarabioyo managed only 16 league outings due to calf and hamstring problems.
Benoit Badiashile featured in just eight Premier League games following a series of muscle injuries, further highlighting the depth problems Alonso will inherit.
Lacroix arrives with 70 Premier League appearances for Crystal Palace already to his name, giving him proven experience in English football’s top flight.
The 6ft 2in Frenchman was central to Palace’s FA Cup, Community Shield, and UEFA Conference League-winning campaigns, cementing his status as one of the division’s best defenders.
He continued to anchor Palace’s defensive line even after Marc Guehi departed for Manchester City in January, demonstrating his ability to lead a backline under pressure.
Lacroix’s versatility is expected to be a key asset for Alonso, whose tactical approach is likely to alternate between a back three and a back four system.
Many defenders struggle to maintain consistent performances across both defensive structures, but Lacroix has repeatedly shown he can excel regardless of formation.
At £43m, Chelsea are securing a player who offers Premier League pedigree, physical presence, and the tactical flexibility that Alonso’s system demands.