Chelsea set for Maxence Lacroix signing as £52m medical booked

Chelsea are on the verge of completing the signing of Maxence Lacroix after agreeing a £52 million deal with Crystal Palace, with the France international now undergoing his medical in London.

The Blues accelerated negotiations following the FIFA World Cup and are expected to finalise the transfer on Friday as Enzo Maresca continues reshaping his defensive options ahead of the new season.

Lacroix is set to become Chelsea's latest marquee addition after an outstanding spell at Selhurst Park.

Chelsea have reached a full agreement with Crystal Palace to sign the 26-year-old centre-back.

Lacroix has already travelled to London for his medical after returning from international duty with France at the World Cup, with the transfer now entering its final stages.

The defender has been one of Chelsea's leading defensive targets throughout the summer, with talks gathering pace following the conclusion of the tournament.

Since joining Crystal Palace from Wolfsburg in 2024, Lacroix has established himself as one of the Premier League's most consistent defenders.

During his time at Selhurst Park, he helped the Eagles win the FA Cup, Community Shield, and UEFA Conference League, becoming a cornerstone of the club's success.

Although Palace wanted to retain him, the club accepted the player's desire to pursue a new challenge.

Chelsea and Crystal Palace also discussed Axel Disasi during negotiations for Lacroix.

The Blues are keen to secure a permanent transfer for the French defender and are seeking around £25 million plus add-ons.

Chelsea would also consider a loan deal that includes a conditional obligation to buy if a permanent agreement cannot immediately be reached.

Crystal Palace are already working to strengthen their defence ahead of Lacroix's departure.

The Eagles remain in negotiations with Augsburg over Chrislain Matsima, who has emerged as their priority replacement after an initial offer was rejected.

Meanwhile, former target Charlie Cresswell now appears destined to join Ligue 1 side Rennes instead.

Chelsea are expected to officially confirm Maxence Lacroix's arrival once his medical and final paperwork are completed. Crystal Palace will then focus on finalising a replacement, with Chrislain Matsima remaining their primary defensive target.