Chelsea and Liverpool may face defeat in the race to sign 25-year-old French international Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace this summer.
According to a report by TEAMtalk, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and Liverpool are interested in Bayern Munich centre-back Maxence Lacroix. However, while the two Premier League giants are mulling over a summer move, they risk falling behind Bayern Munich in the battle for his signature, as the Bundesliga champions are “currently the side most actively pursuing a deal” for the French defender.
How has Maxence Lacroix fared at Crystal Palace?
Maxence Lacroix has established himself as one of the most dependable defenders in the Premier League since joining Crystal Palace from VfL Wolfsburg in August 2024. The 25-year-old has made significant progress in the last 18 months, becoming a mainstay at the back for the South London outfit.
The French defender has made nearly 100 appearances thus far for Crystal Palace, chipping in with four goals and three assists. Meanwhile, Lacroix’s progress has stimulated the interest of several high-profile clubs, with Bayern Munich, Chelsea, and Liverpool among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
A man in demand
Bayern Munich may dip into the market for a centre-back this summer, as Kim Min-jae faces an uncertain future at the Allianz Arena. Meanwhile, Hiroki Ito has struggled with fitness issues throughout his spell with the Bavarian outfit. So, Bayern Munich must sign a centre-back who can line up alongside Dayot Upamecano for several years, with Lacroix a viable target. Additionally, the Frenchman’s previous experience in the Bundesliga should help him settle down quickly.
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s long-term interest in Maxence Lacroix is understandable. The Reds are scouring the market for a centre-back after failing to secure Marc Guehi’s services from Crystal Palace last year. With Ibrahima Konate yet to sign a new contract and approaching free agency, Liverpool must secure a long-term replacement.
As for Chelsea, the Blues have been combing the market for a centre-back since last summer, as they want a long-term central defensive partner for Levi Colwill. Additionally, Axel Disasi has no future at Stamford Bridge, while recent reports have claimed that Benoit Badiashile may leave Chelsea after the 2025/26 season.
However, Chelsea and Liverpool may have fallen behind Bayern Munich in the battle for Lacroix’s signature, as the Bundesliga champions are actively pursuing a summer deal for the 25-year-old Frenchman. Meanwhile, it is unclear if Crystal Palace will be receptive to offers for Lacroix after selling a pivotal defender a few months ago.