Lacroix had been on a shortlist of centre-back options since it became clear Chelsea‘s defence was underperforming and that they needed more physicality and leadership in their backline.
Although former Manchester City defender John Stones and Como’s Jacobo Ramon were also known to be under consideration, it always felt as though the 6ft 4in Palace defender was Chelsea‘s preferred target.
Lengthy negotiations over both personal terms and the transfer fee with Crystal Palace added uncertainty to the deal.
However, Lacroix gave the move the green light last week after France’s World Cup campaign ended with a fourth-place finish following defeat by England in the bronze-medal match.
The signing offers a glimpse into Chelsea‘s future direction after a season in which they finished 10th in the Premier League and ended the campaign without a trophy, prompting frustration among supporters.
Co-owner Behdad Eghbali said Chelsea would “tweak” their model and add experience to what he still believes is a strong core of young players including Cole Palmer, Moises Caicedo and Levi Colwill.
Not only is Lacroix the oldest player signed under the current ownership since Eghbali and his sporting directors took control, but Chelsea also attempted to sign Granit Xhaka, 34, from Sunderland in a deal that would have been highly unusual for the club’s recruitment strategy.
Although Chelsea were unable to reunite the Switzerland midfielder with his former Bayer Leverkusen manager Alonso, the attempt sent a clear message that the club’s approach is changing.
Along with £117m arrival Rogers, who turned 24 on Saturday, Lacroix’s arrival means Chelsea have delivered on their pledge to make at least two ready-made signings.
