In a recent report, Sky Germany has mentioned that Chelsea are showing interest in landing VfL Wolfsburg defender Maxence Lacroix this summer. It is believed that the Blues boss Thomas Tuchel is looking to bolster his defensive department by recruiting the French centre-back during the summer transfer period (via Sky Germany).
Lacroix’s Impressive Form In German Football This Season
The 21-year-old is having a solid campaign with the German giants as he has produced a run of consistent displays at the heart of Oliver Glasner’s defence. Lacroix has been involved in 35 matches for the German club this term, netting two goals and providing two assists in various competitions.
The former Sochaux youth player has given a good account of himself by averaging 1.6 tackles, 2.1 interceptions and 4.6 clearances per 90 minutes in this Bundesliga campaign. He has even been careful when distributing the ball out from the back after completing 83% of his attempted passes in the German first division (stats via whoscored).
Lacroix has established himself as one of French football’s most promising young defenders. He is under contract at the Volkswagen Arena until the summer of 2024, so it would take a sizable offer from the Blues if they are serious about acquiring the defender’s services when the transfer window commences later this year.
What Will Lacroix Add To Thomas Tuchel’s Team?
Lacroix has got electric pace in his locker that makes him a hard man to beat when left isolated in a 1v1 footrace with the opposition. His quickness also helps him pull off some important recovering runs at the back.
The French defensive ace has proven himself to be a capable centre-back for Wolfsburg as he has got good defensive awareness that allows him to make a few crucial interceptions on the defensive end of the field. Plus, he is not shy of clearing his lines when in danger of being exposed inside his half.
Hence, Lacroix would be a wise option for Chelsea to consider in the summer. He will enhance the quality of Thomas Tuchel’s backline and is good enough to fight for a regular starting spot at Stamford Bridge in the coming seasons.
Moreover, Lacroix would add more pace and defensive stability to Tuchel’s first team which might help them compete for some major trophies over the next few years. At 21, the French whizkid has the potential to become a world-class player in his position someday and would add a lot of long-term value to the West London club.