Xabi Alonso backs Maxence Lacroix to transform Chelsea defence

The France international was officially unveiled on Thursday after joining Chelsea in a deal reported to be worth 52 million pounds. The 26-year-old has signed a six-year contract and will join Alonso's squad for pre-season as the Blues prepare for the new campaign.

Alonso, who previously coached in the Bundesliga with Bayer Leverkusen, said he had followed Lacroix's development closely since his time in Germany.

"I know Maxence from my time in the Bundesliga," Alonso said.

"I think that his progression and his adaptation in the Premier League have been fantastic. Not just on the pitch but in terms of personality and leadership.

"He has these attributes and is a very reliable player that will give us power in the defensive line and will have a big direct impact in the team, I'm sure.

"So it's a great signing for now and for the future."

Lacroix made 98 appearances for Crystal Palace after joining the club from Wolfsburg in 2024. During his time at Selhurst Park, he helped Palace win the FA Cup, the UEFA Conference League and the Community Shield.

Alonso believes the defender's character is just as important as his ability on the pitch.

"He has a strong personality, he's mature," Alonso said.

"He wants to win. He has a winner's mentality, and he loves to defend, and that's something I like as well."

Lacroix also spoke of his excitement after completing the move to Stamford Bridge and revealed that his discussions with Alonso convinced him Chelsea were the right club.

"When I spoke with the manager, I saw that we have the same direction and desire for this club," Lacroix said. "We want to win."

The French defender has earned seven senior caps for France and featured at the recent 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Lacroix becomes Chelsea's latest major arrival during a busy transfer window. The club have already signed forward Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa in a British-record deal worth 117 million pounds, while right-back Marco Palestra arrived from Atalanta for 47 million pounds. Geovany Quenda and Emmanuel Emegha have also joined the squad after transfer agreements were completed in 2025.