Crystal Palace are on the verge of strengthening their defense with the potential signing of Maxence Lacroix from VfL Wolfsburg. The clubs have agreed on a transfer fee, but personal terms with the French defender are still under negotiation. This move could significantly enhance Crystal Palace’s defensive lineup.
- Crystal Palace and VfL Wolfsburg agree on €18m fee + €3m add-ons.
- Personal terms with Maxence Lacroix still under negotiation.
- Lacroix’s transfer could significantly strengthen Crystal Palace’s defense.
Crystal Palace’s Agreement with Wolfsburg
Crystal Palace has reached a crucial agreement with VfL Wolfsburg to sign promising center-back Maxence Lacroix. The clubs have settled on a transfer fee of €18 million, with an additional €3 million in potential add-ons. However, personal terms with the 24-year-old French defender have not yet been finalized. Negotiations are ongoing to complete the move.
🚨 Crystal Palace reach agreement with Wolfsburg to sign centre-back Maxence Lacroix. Clubs settled on price of €18m + €3m add-ons for 24yo. Personal terms with French defender not yet in place; still being worked on to complete #CPFC move @TheAthleticFC https://t.co/56NUnO8ibO
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein)
September 14, 2023
This move showcases Crystal Palace’s ambition to strengthen their defensive lineup, following an active transfer window. The club hopes Lacroix’s addition will bolster their defensive capabilities and provide more stability at the back.
Maxence Lacroix: Player Profile and Career Statistics
Maxence Lacroix, born on April 6, 2000, in Villeneuve-Saint-Georges, France, is a towering center-back standing at 1.90 meters. He is known for his strong defensive presence and aerial prowess. Lacroix began his youth career at AS Limeyrat Les Croquants and progressed through various clubs before landing at FC Sochaux-Montbéliard, where he made his professional debut.
Career Overview
| Club | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| Sochaux II (2017-2019) | 13 | 0 |
| Sochaux (2018-2020) | 27 | 0 |
| VfL Wolfsburg (2020-Present) | 111 | 6 |
Lacroix has also represented France at various youth international levels, showcasing his potential on a broader stage.
Transfer History
Lacroix moved from FC Sochaux-Montbéliard to VfL Wolfsburg on August 25, 2020. While the transfer fee was not publicly disclosed, his market value at the time was approximately €5 million. His current contract with Wolfsburg is set to expire on June 30, 2025.
Additional Context and Professional Milestones
Lacroix made his professional debut for Sochaux in a 1-0 victory over FC Lorient in Ligue 2 on December 22, 2018. He scored his first Bundesliga goal for Wolfsburg on February 27, 2021, in a 2-0 win against Hertha BSC. His performances have caught the eye of many clubs, leading to the current interest from Crystal Palace.
This potential acquisition aligns with Crystal Palace’s recent moves in the transfer market, including their confirmed signing of Eddie Nketiah from Arsenal for £25 million. These strategic signings indicate the club’s intent to build a robust squad for the upcoming seasons.
For more detailed player statistics and transfer history, check Maxence Lacroix’s profile on Transfermarkt.
