Unstoppable Xabi Alonso lands new star as Chelsea's spending hits €318 million

Chelsea are showing no signs of slowing down in this summer's transfer market: Fabrizio Romano has announced that the signing of Maxence Lacroix is fully agreed, giving Xabi Alonso another key addition to his squad. The London club have now spent more than €318 million on new players this summer.

A French international is the new signing

Chelsea and Crystal Palace have agreed on all terms, and the medical is already underway. The 26-year-old France international centre-back is moving clubs for €60.8 million and will sign until the summer of 2032. Lacroix was a key player at both Wolfsburg and Crystal Palace, and thanks to his physical duelling ability he has been considered one of the best defenders in recent years.

Xabi Alonso is reshaping Chelsea

Xabi Alonso took charge at the London club this summer, and the board is trying to grant his every wish. Chelsea have spent staggering sums to rebuild their squad this summer. The biggest addition was Morgan Rogers, who arrived from Aston Villa for €138 million, followed by Marco Palestra for €57 million, Geovany Quenda for €50 million, Denner for €10 million, and Dasztan Szatpajev for €2.4 million. The signing of Emmanuel Emegha has also been announced, though the transfer fee has not yet been made public.

Chelsea's spending has now passed €318 million

With Lacroix's arrival, Chelsea have crossed another significant threshold. Including the Crystal Palace defender's €60.8 million fee, the London club's known transfer spending this summer has now risen to €318.2 million, and the figure could climb further, as Chelsea are still working on reinforcements in several positions.

Could be one of the Premier League's biggest favourites

Chelsea's squad is already packed with world-class stars, and with Xabi Alonso now in charge, the club's clear aim is to become one of the Premier League's leading title contenders once again. Signing Lacroix is an important step, as the defender brings stability and experience to the back line, while his age means he could remain a key player for many years to come.