Chelsea, Arsenal and Real Madrid Chase Crystal Palace Defender Maxence Lacroix

Chelsea have entered a three‑way race with Arsenal and Real Madrid to sign Crystal Palace centre‑back Maxence Lacroix, the 26‑year‑old French defender who featured in 55 matches and netted three goals for the Eagles last season. Lacroix also contributed three assists and his current contract at Selhurst Park runs until the summer of 2029, making a cheap transfer unlikely this summer. The French centre‑back is noted for his tackling ability and his capacity to read danger, often recovering the ball inside his own half. Standing 1.90 m tall, Lacroix uses his strong frame to dominate aerial duels against opposition attackers. Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso is said to view Lacroix as a player who could add bite and steel to his backline. Alonso believes the defender would be capable of competing for a regular first‑team place at Stamford Bridge in the coming seasons. Lacroix’s consistency in the Premier League has placed him among the league’s most reliable centre‑backs, according to the report. He won’t take much time to settle into life at Stamford Bridge if the Blues win the race for his services later this year. Chelsea’s pursuit of Lacroix aligns with their ambition to strengthen the squad across all competitions in the upcoming years. Hence, Alonso would be wise to try everything in his power to snap him up this off‑season.