According to a report by Football London Thursday November 5, 2026, Chelsea invested £52 million in Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace during the summer transfer window, hoping his physical strength and experience would strengthen Xabi Alonso's defensive options.

The French defender was considered suitable for the central position in Alonso's back three. However, Chelsea's defensive performances have raised questions about whether their investment was the right decision.

Despite Lacroix's reasonable beginning at Stamford Bridge, Chelsea have conceded 15 goals in nine Premier League matches, highlighting their defensive difficulties this season.

Former Chelsea defender Ricardo Carvalho has praised another Premier League centre-back, Ezri Konsa, raising discussions about whether the Blues should have pursued the Arsenal defender instead.

Carvalho identified Konsa as one of his favourite English defenders after watching him impress during Arsenal's 2-1 victory over Chelsea earlier this season.

Arsenal reportedly spent £55 million to sign Konsa from Aston Villa during the summer, slightly exceeding Chelsea's £52 million investment in Lacroix.

Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Carvalho revealed his admiration for the defender, saying: “Konsa. I think he's good. He can have success at a big club.”

The former Portugal international also explained what separates outstanding defenders from others, highlighting their passion for defending, winning tackles and celebrating important defensive contributions.

Both Konsa and Lacroix have started seven Premier League matches this season. However, Arsenal's defensive record has made the Englishman's performances particularly impressive.

Arsenal have conceded just five league goals in nine matches, compared with Chelsea's 15, demonstrating the significant difference between the two clubs defensively.

Konsa has also impressed while replacing William Saliba alongside Gabriel, helping Arsenal maintain their defensive stability despite the Frenchman's absence.

Meanwhile, Lacroix has experienced inconsistent moments, with concerns surrounding his mobility. His unsuccessful challenge against Mathys Tel contributed to Tottenham scoring during their recent 2-0 victory at Stamford Bridge.

Their individual statistics are relatively similar, although Konsa has recorded a superior WhoScored rating of 7.04 compared with Lacroix's 6.79.

Konsa could eventually return to Arsenal's bench once Saliba regains full fitness, whereas he might have enjoyed a regular starting position under Alonso at Chelsea.

Morgan Rogers previously selected Chelsea over Arsenal following his departure from Aston Villa, and the report suggests Konsa might have considered a similar move if Alonso had prioritised signing him.