This week’s transfer window belonged to Chelsea — two players in, one out — and it was capped by Friday’s freshest development.
Lacroix — Chelsea wrap up £52m deal
Chelsea have agreed a deal with Crystal Palace for Maxence Lacroix. According to David Ornstein (The Athletic), the 26-year-old France international will cost £52m and undergoes his medical today before signing a six-year contract; Sky Sports report similar, with the fee “in the region of £51m.” The centre-back arrived at Selhurst Park from Wolfsburg in 2024, has made close to 100 appearances, won the Conference League with Palace, and last season was the only Premier League player to post 50+ tackles, 200+ duels won and 250+ clearances. He also featured at this summer’s World Cup. One caveat: the move is contingent on Palace signing a replacement.
Rogers — British record confirmed
The biggest deal of the week. Chelsea finalised the £117m signing of Morgan Rogers from Aston Villa — the most ever paid for a British player. The 23-year-old signed a seven-year contract and links back up with Cole Palmer. With Lacroix inbound, it caps a hugely busy week of arrivals at Stamford Bridge.
Garnacho — Chelsea’s outgoing to Villa
Going the other way: Alejandro Garnacho joins Aston Villa on loan with an obligation to buy. The medical in Birmingham is done, the obligatory fee is set at £42.5m, and a four-year contract kicks in once the permanent move completes. Unai Emery is the driving force.
Arsenal: Tzolis official, Guimarães still unresolved
Arsenal have announced the signing of Christos Tzolis from Club Brugge for £34m on a five-year deal — the Greece winger replaces Leandro Trossard, who moved to Beşiktaş this week. Still up in the air is Bruno Guimarães: the Brazilian has told Newcastle he wants to move to the Emirates, but Arsenal have yet to make a formal bid. The Gunners are prepared to pay £70m; Newcastle want at least £80m.
Bouaddi — City in front, fee the final hurdle
Unchanged since the start of the week: Manchester City lead the race for Lille’s Ayyoub Bouaddi and have an agreement with the player, but the fee with the French club (a £84–102m range) is not yet agreed.
The window closes at 11pm UK time on September 1, so there’s plenty more to come. Next round-up on Friday.