Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso has praised new signing Maxence Lacroix, describing the French defender as a player with a winning mentality.

Chelsea manager Xabi Alonso believes new signing Maxence Lacroix possesses the mentality and leadership needed to transform the club’s defence after completing his move from Crystal Palace. 

The French international officially joined the Blues on Thursday, signing a long-term contract at Stamford Bridge.

Lacroix completed his transfer in a deal reportedly worth £52 million, committing to a six-year contract with Chelsea. The 26-year-old will immediately join Alonso’s squad for pre-season as the Spaniard continues reshaping his team ahead of the new campaign.

Delighted to have you, @LacroixMaxence. 💙

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 30, 2026

Alonso revealed he has admired Lacroix since the defender’s time in the Bundesliga and believes his development has continued since arriving in England. The Chelsea boss highlighted not only his defensive qualities but also his leadership and personality.

“I know Maxence from my time in the Bundesliga,” Alonso said. “His progression and adaptation in the Premier League has been fantastic. Not just on the pitch, but in terms of personality and leadership.”

The former Bayer Leverkusen coach added that Lacroix’s qualities will make an immediate difference to Chelsea’s back line. Alonso described the Frenchman as a reliable defender capable of bringing power, maturity and consistency to the team.

Lacroix arrives after a successful spell with Crystal Palace, where he made 98 appearances and helped the club win the FA Cup, UEFA Conference League, and Community Shield. His impressive performances also earned him a place in France’s squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Speaking after completing the move, Lacroix admitted Alonso played a major role in convincing him to join Chelsea. The defender said the pair shared the same ambitions and insisted they both want to bring trophies back to Stamford Bridge.

Maxence is here. 🦁 pic.twitter.com/SmKWcaPVyZ

— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) July 30, 2026

Chelsea’s busy summer recruitment continues under Alonso following the arrivals of Morgan Rogers, Marco Palestra, Geovany Quenda, and Emmanuel Emegha. The Blues have also been linked with Brighton striker Danny Welbeck and Brentford midfielder Jordan Henderson as the squad overhaul shows no signs of slowing down.