- Crystal Palace offer Lacroix new deal
- Current contract expires in 2029
- Why securing his future is crucial for Palace
Crystal Palace are reportedly keen to tie French defender Maxence Lacroix down to a new contract at the club, after he has continued to impress this season.
According to Graeme Bailey, the South London club are looking to extend Lacroix’s contract, which currently runs until June 2029.
The offer would include improved terms for Lacroix, who not only played a key role in the FA Cup winning campaign last season, but has been instrumental in Palace’s run to the Conference League final.
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Lacroix’s importance to Palace
Since his arrival from VfL Wolfsburg in the Summer of 2024 for a fee in the region of £15 million, Lacroix has been a key reason for the club’s success.
Playing 95 games across the two campaigns, the Frenchman has been an immovable force from the Palace backline, and has played over 4,500 minutes this season alone, more than any other player in Palace’s squad.
Captaining the side on numerous occasions too, his influence on the dressing room and impact at the club has been immeasurable.
He’s scored three goals and registered three assists this season in all competitions. This includes the opening goal in the 2-0 win over Zrinjski Mostar in the second leg of the play-off round, as well as the first goal in the 3-1 win over AZ Alkmaar.
His performances have been rewarded with a call-up for the French squad for this Summer’s World Cup, after he impressed on debut.
His overall performance has improved week on week and there has, quite rightly, been whisperings around potential Summer interest.
It is therefore vital that Palace tie him down to a new contract and keep hold of a key member of this squad.
A Palace legend in such short time
Not only have his performances on the pitch been fantastic, but his approach towards the fans and understanding what it means to represent Crystal Palace has been flawless.
From his celebratory fist pumps after wins, to his passionate displays when making tackles, blocking shots and scoring goals.
He’s produced some blockbuster quotes in his time in South London, but one will be remembered forever by the Palace fanbase.
“Wembley will shake and it will be beautiful.” – Maxence Lacroix.
The confidence throughout the entire FA Cup winning run that Lacroix not only installed in his teammates, but also the fanbase, was crucial to the success that season bought.
Whilst he will undoubtedly be attracting suitors following his success this season, and across his time at Palace, it feels as if his work is not quite done.
At just 26, Lacroix is only really entering his prime years. Palace will be hoping he opts to spend those in South London, and a new contract would be a huge step forward in executing that dream.
