Called up to the France national team for the 2026 World Cup after an outstanding season, Maxence Lacroix may not return to Crystal Palace once the tournament ends. The 26-year-old defender, linked with Chelsea in recent days, is expected to join the Blues in a deal worth around €55 million.
From the Bleus to the Blues? Called up for the first time to the France national team during the March international break, Maxence Lacroix was one of Didier Deschamps‘ surprises in the squad for the 2026 World Cup. The call-up rewards the steady rise of the player, who came through the ranks at Sochaux before joining Crystal Palace in 2024. He now looks set to leave the London club this summer.
Lacroix heading to Chelsea after the world cup
Maxence Lacroix is a wanted man, with Chelsea leading the chase. The Blues are eager to strengthen their backline, and the France international (four caps) fits the profile perfectly. He is expected to leave Crystal Palace for Chelsea once the World Cup ends, with the transfer fee estimated at around €55 million.
A starting spot against Norway?
Having been on the bench since the start of the competition, Maxence Lacroix could be handed his first start on Friday against Norway in the final group-stage match for France, replacing William Saliba. “William won’t be there tomorrow,” Guy Stéphan confirmed in a press conference. “Just look at who has replaced him in recent matches.” Lacroix is not the only defender changing clubs this summer; Ibrahima Konaté has already left Liverpool to join Real Madrid, signing a contract until June 2030, after initially being expected to extend his stay at Anfield.
