Chelsea close in on Maxence Lacroix, Mark van Bommel named Belgium coach
Chelsea Nearing Deal for Maxence Lacroix
Chelsea is reportedly close to securing a deal for Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix. The 26-year-old is expected to undergo a medical examination before finalising his transfer to the London club. Reports suggest that a deal worth around £55 million has been agreed upon for the centre-back, who is anticipated to sign a long-term contract extending until 2032.
Lacroix has been a key defensive target for Chelsea throughout the summer, as manager Xabi Alonso aims to bolster his squad in preparation for the upcoming Premier League season. Since joining Palace in 2024 from Wolfsburg, Lacroix has established himself as a notable defender in the Premier League.
During the last season, Lacroix made 55 appearances across all competitions. He played a significant role in what has been described as a successful period for Palace, contributing to their triumph in the FA Cup and later the Europa Conference League. His performances also earned him a spot in France‘s World Cup squad, where he featured three times.
Chelsea believes that Lacroix’s pace, physicality, and aggressive defensive style align well with Alonso’s preferred tactical approach. The club is keen to reinforce its backline, which has seen considerable changes this summer. Lacroix’s arrival is expected to heighten competition for places within the central defence.
The club is reportedly open to offers for several defenders before the transfer window closes. Players such as Axel Disasi, Benoit Badiashile, and Trevoh Chalobah are among those whose futures at Chelsea are currently uncertain. Meanwhile, Palace has already started planning for Lacroix’s potential departure, with Augsburg defender Chrislain Matsima emerging as a preferred replacement. Trabzonspor‘s Chibuike Nwaiwu is also being monitored as an alternative.
Managerial Appointments and Transfer Updates
In other football news, Mark van Bommel has been appointed as the new head coach for Belgium. The Dutchman has signed a contract that will run through Euro 2028. Upon his appointment, van Bommel expressed his honour at taking on the role, acknowledging Belgium‘s talented players and considerable potential. He stated his intention, along with his coaching staff, to build a disciplined, ambitious, and brave team capable of competing at the highest level. Former Chelsea and Liverpool midfielder Boudewijn Zenden will join his coaching staff as an assistant.
Elsewhere, Enzo Maresca held his first press conference as Manchester City manager. Maresca addressed speculation surrounding midfielder Rodri, stating that the player would return to the club after his recovery and holiday. He also spoke about returning to Manchester City, describing it as feeling “back home” and a privilege to manage the club.
Regarding transfers, Newcastle United is expected to reject a second offer from Arsenal for Bruno Guimaraes, reportedly valued at £70 million. The Brazilian midfielder is said to be pushing for a move to Arsenal. Additionally, Idrissa Gueye is set to leave Everton to join Saudi side Al-Diriyah, marking the end of his second spell with The Toffees. Manchester United has also announced that Sekou Kone has joined Lausanne-Sport on a season-long loan, returning to the Swiss side after a previous loan spell.
Reports also indicate that Juventus is monitoring Manchester United captain Bruno Fernandes, whose contract is set to run until June 2027. Meanwhile, Fulham has confirmed Alvaro Arbeloa‘s backroom staff, with Julian Carmona named as assistant head coach among six other appointments. Como has submitted an improved offer for Chelsea centre-back Trevoh Chalobah.
In Germany, Jurgen Klopp has been appointed as the head coach of the German national team, signing a four-year deal until 2030. German FA President Bernd Neuendorf confirmed that Klopp was their primary choice for the role following Julian Nagelsmann‘s resignation. Klopp expressed his motivation for taking the job, stating he is doing it for the country. He also issued a warning to the media regarding their treatment of managers.
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Source: tntsports.co.uk
