Chelsea v Brentford - Premier League - Source: Getty
Chelsea v Brentford - Premier League - Source: Getty
Chelsea are prepared to make a move for Bournemouth star Marcos Senesi as an alternative to Jeremy Jacquet this month, as per reports. The Blues are in talks to sign Rennes youngster Jacquet after deciding to strengthen their backline this month, but have contingencies in place.
ESPN reports (via tribuna.com) that Argentina international Senesi is the main contingency option for the Blues for if they fail to land Jacquet in the January transfer window. The Blues have yet to formally approach Bournemouth for a deal, but with Senesi's contract set to expire at the end of the season, talks are expected to be straightforward.
Chelsea decided that signing a new centre-back was in order after the arrival of new head coach Liam Rosenior earlier this month. The Blues were keen on then-Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen last summer but failed to lure the Spaniard, as he moved to Real Madrid instead.
This month, Rosenior's side are prepared to move for French youngster Jacquet, who has impressed in the French top-flight this season. The 20-year-old has been linked with Arsenal, Real Madrid, Liverpool, and several other top European sides after his emergence as a rising star.
Chelsea have a verbal agreement on personal terms with the young centre-back, and are in talks with Rennes over a transfer fee. France is quickly becoming their preferred shopping centre for centre-backs, with the club having signed the likes of Mamadou Sarr, Axel Disasi, and Benoit Badiashile in recent seasons.
Rennes want a club-record fee of around €60 million to sanction the transfer of Jacquet to Stamford Bridge, but the Blues are not looking to go that high. Negotiations remain ongoing between both sides, with the young defender keen on a move to England this month. Experienced 28-year-old Senesi and Como defender Jacobo Ramon remain as options for the Blues in this window.
Chelsea recall star ahead of permanent sale: Reports
Chelsea have recalled striker David Datro Fofana from his loan spell ahead of a planned permanent exit from the club this month, as per reports. The Ivorian striker is set to leave the Premier League side this month after failing to shine in his time at the club.
Fabrizio Romano reports that the Blues are set to sell Fofana this month, and have cut short his loan spell at Fatih Karagumruk. A number of clubs in England and outside of England are keen on the 23-year-old, who scored eight goals in 15 appearances for the Turkish club during his loan stint.
Datro Fofana appears set to become the second player to return from a loan spell and move permanently from Chelsea this month after a similar agreement for Leo Castledine. The former Molde striker is wanted by Celtic, Royal Antwerp, and Derby County, among other sides.