Chelsea have “agreed personal terms” with Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
Writing on his X account, Romano said the centre-back has been identified as the Blues’ “main target” to strengthen the middle of defence.
However, at the time of writing, no deal has been struck with Rennes as there is still a gap between the two sides on the transfer fee.
Jacquet’s club are holding out for €65m (£55m), while Chelsea’s current offer is below that figure.
Why are Chelsea so keen to sign the defender now?
The 20-year-old is regarded as one of the most promising centre-halves in European football, with some even comparing him to fellow countryman William Saliba.
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Jacquet was actually linked to Arsenal last summer, and since then, the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool have been mentioned as other potential suitors.
Liam Rosenior’s side are seemingly trying to steal a march on their rivals by looking to seal the Frenchman’s signature now. Rennes were initially hoping to keep the player until the summer, but with a price tag having been set, it appears the Ligue One club are resigned to losing him this month if a team matches their valuation.
Jacquet will add something different
The Blues are not exactly short of options at the back. While Levi Colwill has been ruled out for the majority of the season with an ACL injury, Rosenior can still call up Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, Tosin Adarabioyo and Benoit Badiashile.
Yet, the manager is keen to have a ball-playing centre-back among his options, and it is one of the main reasons why Jacquet has emerged as a top target. Even so, he is an inexperienced player, and the club again seem to be willing to pay a sizeable amount for yet another unproven talent.
Read more about the Chelsea First Team Squad for 2025/26 here