Lacroix to Chelsea? What it means for FPL

Chelsea's reported interest in Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix, as per BBC Sport's gossip column, could have significant implications for Fantasy Premier League managers. A move to Stamford Bridge would see the reliable centre-back join a team with high clean sheet potential, potentially boosting his FPL appeal.

By the numbers

• Position: DEF

Price: 5.2m

• Availability: fully available
• This season: 154 pts, 3085 mins, 1 goal, 2 assists, 11 clean sheets, 370 defensive-contribution (DEFCON) pts, PPG 4.4, form 0.0, xGI 3.28, owned by 7.1%
• FPL expected points next GW: 1.2
• 2025/26: 154 pts, 3085 mins, 1 goal, 2 assists, 11 clean sheets
• 2024/25: 114 pts, 3116 mins, 1 goal, 2 assists, 11 clean sheets

The FPL verdict

Should Maxence Lacroix make the switch to Chelsea, he would likely be a strong contender for a starting spot in their defence. His consistent minutes over two previous Premier League seasons suggest he's a robust option, and a move to a top-half club would undoubtedly increase his clean sheet potential.

While his attacking returns are modest (one goal and two assists in each of his last two seasons), his DEFCON points of 370 this season highlight his ability to contribute defensively beyond just clean sheets. At a price of £5.2m, he could offer excellent value as a differential, especially if Chelsea's defensive form improves under their new structure. His current ownership of 7.1% suggests he's not a widely owned asset, making him an interesting punt if the transfer materialises. Chelsea's fixtures and defensive setup under a new manager would be crucial in determining his FPL ceiling, but a move to a more defensively solid team could see his expected points rise from the current 1.2 per game.