The 26-year-old France international is expected to start for his country in their final Group I game against Norway tonight, standing in for Arsenal's William Saliba. After the tournament, his next career move will take him across London rather than overseas.
Lacroix joined Crystal Palace from Wolfsburg in 2024 for €18 million and has developed rapidly at Selhurst Park, winning the FA Cup last season and the UEFA Conference League this year with the Eagles.
He has made his senior France debut during the current international cycle and earned his place in the World Cup squad on the back of consistent Premier League performances.
Chelsea identified him as their primary centre-back target heading into the summer and Xabi Alonso's arrival as head coach has accelerated the process. The club conceded 52 goals in the Premier League last season — a figure that demanded defensive reinforcement — and Lacroix's ability to operate in both a back four and a back three suits Alonso's tactical flexibility.
Crystal Palace had been holding out for up to €60 million. The figure now reported by L'Equipe of €55 million falls below that ceiling but still represents a trebling of the fee Palace paid VfL Wolfsburg two years ago. The Eagles are not in need of a quick sale but are prepared to accept Lacroix's departure at the right price.
Lacroix brings physicality, composure on the ball and experience in multiple defensive systems — qualities Chelsea have been seeking since losing key defenders to injury and inconsistency last season. At 26 and now established at international level, he is ready to contribute immediately.