Chelsea and Arsenal are reportedly weighing up moves to sign Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix this summer. The 26-year-old French centre-back has attracted attention after an impressive campaign that saw Palace win the FA Cup, Community Shield, and Europa Conference League.
Lacroix's Rise at Palace
Palace’s £15 million deal for Lacroix from Wolfsburg two years ago has proven to be a shrewd piece of business. Manager Oliver Glasner, who previously worked with Lacroix at Wolfsburg, played a central role in bringing the defender to the Premier League. The pair celebrated significant silverware together, including the Europa Conference League title last month.
However, with Glasner's departure and Pierre Sage appointed as the new manager, speculation is mounting that Lacroix could follow his former boss out of Selhurst Park. Lacroix made 55 appearances across all competitions last season, and there are growing fears at Palace that the Conference League final may have been his farewell match.
Interest from Top Clubs
According to reports, Chelsea have added Lacroix to their shortlist of defensive targets. New manager Xabi Alonso is expected to deploy a 3-4-2-1 formation, and the club is scouting for reinforcements to strengthen the centre-back options.
Lacroix has not yet committed his future to Palace and is keen to assess offers that arise in the coming months. Premier League champions Arsenal and Spanish giants Real Madrid are also credited with strong interest, potentially sparking a bidding war.
Palace's Stance and Valuation
While Palace’s hierarchy is reluctant to part with such an integral player, a sale cannot be ruled out if a substantial offer arrives. The club is reportedly demanding a fee of £50 million for the centre-half, which would represent a significant profit on their initial investment. Lacroix’s current contract runs through June 2029.
Reflecting on the Conference League triumph, Lacroix told Palace’s official website: “I think everyone is really proud of the journey and what we’ve done. I trusted that we could win this trophy – and now, in Leipzig, we have the medal.” He also praised the fans, saying, “It’s like you fight with 12 people, even 13. They push, and we’re never alone.”
As the summer transfer window heats up, Lacroix’s future remains uncertain, with several top clubs monitoring his situation closely.
