Chelsea close to agreeing deal for 26yo star

July 23, 2026 19:49 GMT (UK), by Sri Aswin

Lacroix to Chelsea happening soon

Chelsea are close to reaching an agreement to land Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix this summer, according to journalist Ben Jacobs.

The Blues have already agreed on personal terms with the 26-year-old Frenchman, and they are now close to sealing a deal with the Eagles as well.

Palace set an asking price of around £60m earlier this week, but the Blues could end up signing him for £50m plus £5m in add-ons.

His arrival is expected to coincide with a couple of exits. Axel Disasi has been placed on the transfer market and could move to Serie A.

AC Milan and Juventus are weighing up bids for the centre-back. The Blues want at least £25m to part ways with the former Monaco man.

Disasi’s compatriot and former Monaco teammate Benoit Badiashile could likewise depart. He has been fancied to return to France.

Chelsea are not done in the transfer market, and they are expected to make at least two more marquee signings after Lacroix’s arrival.