Called up to the french national team for the 2026 world cup after a stellar 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 55m€.
From the Bleus to the Blues? Called up for the first time to the french national team during the march international break, Maxence Lacroix was one of the surprises in Didier Deschamps‘ squad for the 2026 world cup. The call-up rewards the progress of the player, who came through the ranks at Sochaux, since his move to 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 race. The blues are looking to bolster their defense, and the french international (4 caps) fits the profile perfectly. He is expected to leave Crystal Palace for Chelsea after the world cup, in a transfer worth around 55m€.
A starting spot against Norway?
Having been an unused substitute so far in the tournament, Maxence Lacroix could get his first start on friday against Norway, replacing William Saliba in France’s final group-stage match. “William will not be there tomorrow,” Guy Stéphan announced in a press conference. “Just look at who has replaced him in recent matches.” In the same position, he is not the only one changing clubs this summer—Ibrahima Konaté has already done so. After a contract extension seemed likely, the 27-year-old left Liverpool for Real Madrid, signing until june 2030.
