FC Chelsea is looking to regain its former glory under Xabi Alonso. Could the Blues strengthen their squad with a former Bundesliga star?
According to The Athletic, the London club is considering a move for defender Maxence Lacroix from Premier League rivals Crystal Palace.
Speculation about the former VfL Wolfsburg player’s potential departure has been circulating for weeks. Despite his contract running until June 30, 2029, it may be difficult for Palace to retain him beyond the summer.
Lacroix has reportedly long harbored a desire to compete in the Champions League. With Crystal Palace, as the reigning Europa Conference League champions, he would only participate in the Europa League next season.
While FC Chelsea also won’t be able to offer international football next year following a disastrous 2025/26 season, the chances of qualifying for the Champions League appear significantly better than at Palace, especially after the appointment of Xabi Alonso as the new head coach.
Crystal Palace Reportedly Only Willing to Negotiate from €40 Million
While Crystal Palace is reportedly not entirely opposed to selling, any interested club would need to meet their valuation. They are said to be open to negotiations for a fee starting from €40 million.
Lacroix joined Crystal Palace in 2024 for €18 million from VfL Wolfsburg, having previously been developed in the youth system of FC Sochaux. The 26-year-old is currently with France for the World Cup in the USA, Canada, and Mexico, but has not yet featured in any matches.