The 24-year-old central defender becomes our fourth signing of the transfer window, and heads to the Premier League after four seasons in the German top-flight. He will wear the No. 5 shirt for Palace.
Lacroix made his professional debut with French side Sochaux, before moving to Wolfsburg to work under Oliver Glasner, where he helped the club to qualify for the UEFA Champions League in his first campaign.
He made a total of 130 appearances for Die Wölfe, playing in both the Champions League and the Europa League, and scored seven times – including four last season. Now, he reunites with Glasner in South London.
Palace Chairman Steve Parish said: “We have watched Maxence play at the very highest level of European football and we are delighted to be able to welcome him to Selhurst Park.
“He is another young, talented player to add to the club, and I am sure he will prove himself to be a valuable asset for Oliver and the squad.”
Lacroix said: “It’s like a dream for a young football player. I’m really happy to be here and arrive at this good team.
“I watched Palace’s last games and I was really happy for the coach, because I’d played under him before. I think it’s the right moment to move to the Premier League.”
Lacroix made his debut for Palace against Leicester City at Selhurst Park in September 2024 shortly after signing. The defender quickly established himself as a mainstay in the squad, starting every game he was eligible for. He kept 15 clean sheets in 43 appearances across all competitions, helping the side make history by winning the FA Cup.
Lacroix built on that impressive debut campaign in 2025/26, further underlining his status as one of the Premier League's most consistent defenders. He made 55 appearances across all competitions and helped Palace keep 16 clean sheets during another memorable season.
A threat at both ends of the pitch, he registered three goals and three assists, including his first European goal in a 3-1 win over AZ Alkmaar and a crucial header against HŠK Zrinjski Mostar to help send Palace into the UEFA Conference League round of 16.
His strong form earned a first senior France call-up in March 2026, and he played the full 90 minutes as Palace defeated Rayo Vallecano to secure the club's first major European trophy. He was subsequently included in France's squad for the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a string of outstanding performances at the heart of Oliver Glasner's defence.
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