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'Is he what Chelsea really needs?' - Desailly questions £52m Lacroix move

Chelsea are reportedly closing in on a £52 million deal for Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix as Xabi Alonso looks to bolster his defence. However, Blues legend Marcel Desailly has voiced his concerns over the transfer, questioning whether the French international possesses the elite experience required at Stamford Bridge.

Chelsea close to wrapping up £52m Lacroix signing

Chelsea are on the verge of completing a £52 million deal for Crystal Palace centre-back Maxence Lacroix. The 26-year-old French international is set to undergo a medical before signing a six-year contract at Stamford Bridge, while Palace actively seek a replacement ahead of the new campaign.

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10 EPL transfers you might have missed during the World Cup

The transfer window usually dominates the back pages during the summer, but that's rarely the case in tournament years as the market is forced to take a back seat. Business never sleeps, however, and several deals have gone under the radar during the 2026 World Cup. After five-and-a-half weeks and some 104 matches, the big event is finally over, which means attention can now turn to the comings and goings at club level.