According to a report by Spanish outlet Fichajes, Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix is the subject of interest from Real Madrid. Aston Villa, Chelsea, and Liverpool are also keen on signing the 25-year-old ahead of the 2026/27 season. Meanwhile, the South London outfit will demand around €40 million to part ways with him in the coming months.
Maxence Lacroix has established himself as one of the most reliable defenders in the Premier League since joining Crystal Palace from VfL Wolfsburg in August 2024. The 25-year-old has been a mainstay at the back for the South London outfit, with his exploits earning him his international bow.
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 piqued the attention of several high-profile clubs, with Aston Villa, Chelsea, Liverpool, and Real Madrid among the prospective suitors vying for his signature.
Aston Villa may dip into the market for a centre-back this summer, as Tyrone Mings is on the wrong side of 30 and approaching the twilight of his career. Additionally, Victor Lindelof and Pau Torres have struggled with a few fitness issues. So, Lacroix is a viable target for Aston Villa. As for Real Madrid, David Alaba has been unreliable due to persistent injury woes in recent seasons.
Additionally, Eder Militao has sustained three long-term injuries in as many seasons. So, Real Madrid must sign a centre-back this summer. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s long-term interest in Maxence Lacroix makes sense. The Reds are combing the market for a centre-back, as Ibrahima Konate has entered the final six months of his contract and is yet to sign a new deal. Additionally, Virgil van Dijk is regressing, and Joe Gomez faces an uncertain future at Anfield.
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.
Meanwhile, Crystal Palace’s asking price of €40 million makes Lacroix an appealing target, as he is approaching the peak of his career and can become a long-term asset for his next club. However, Real Madrid’s entry in the battle for the 25-year-old Frenchman’s signature complicates matters for his Premier League suitors, and we may be set for an intense race for his services.
