Following a standout season that earned him a call-up to the French national team for the 2026 World Cup, Maxence Lacroix is highly unlikely to return to Crystal Palace once the tournament concludes. The 26-year-old defender, who has recently garnered significant attention from Chelsea, is reportedly on the verge of joining the Blues in a transfer valued at approximately €55 million.
From the French national team, known as the Bleus, to London’s Blues? Maxence Lacroix’s initial call-up to the équipe de France during last March’s international break and subsequent inclusion in Didier Deschamps’ 2026 World Cup squad came as a notable surprise. This recognition underscores the remarkable progression of the player, who honed his skills at Sochaux before his move to Crystal Palace in 2024, a club he now appears set to depart from this summer.
lacroix poised for chelsea switch post-world cup
Indeed, Maxence Lacroix is a highly sought-after talent, with Chelsea leading the chase. The London club is actively looking to bolster its defensive line, and the French international, with his four caps, perfectly aligns with the profile they seek. Information suggests he is expected to complete his move from Crystal Palace to Chelsea following the conclusion of the World Cup, with the transfer fee anticipated to be around €55 million.
a starting role against norway?
Having remained on the bench since the start of the tournament, Maxence Lacroix might be handed a starting position this Friday against Norway, in what will be the final group stage match for the équipe de France. Assistant coach Guy Stéphan confirmed in a press conference that « William will not be there tomorrow, » adding, « One only needs to consider who has replaced him in recent matches. » In a related development within the defensive sector, Ibrahima Konaté is also making a club change this summer. Despite initial indications of a contract extension, the 27-year-old ultimately left Liverpool to join Real Madrid, where he signed a deal extending until June 2030.
