Fabrizio Romano has just shared a transfer update out of Chelsea with an 'exciting talent' now on the verge of leaving Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea set for active January window after all
New manager Liam Rosenior has emphasized patience regarding January additions, despite Chelsea identifying multiple priority positions for strengthening before deadline day.
General view of a Chelsea flag inside the stadium before the matc
The new head coach confirmed ongoing daily discussions with the club hierarchy about potential business too, but stressed his preference for thoroughly assessing his existing squad options before sanctioning any new moves.
Rosenior insisted Chelsea will only pursue signings if they represent the correct profile, stating he wants to evaluate current players and provide opportunities for positive surprises before rushing into decisions.
"I think if we do, it needs to be the right player. We need to be patient," Rosenior said in last Thursday's press conference.
"I want to assess this group. It's really, really important to me. I like to give the players I work with a chance to show good surprises.
"We still have time. We have conversations every day, myself and the board, about potential transfers, both out and in, but at the same time, I need to focus on the players in the building."
Chelsea have prioritized central defensive reinforcements following Levi Colwill's pre-season ACL injury and Wesley Fofana's ongoing fitness battles.
The club are reportedly prepared to pay around £43 million for Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, though the French club are demanding fees exceeding £55 million given his contract runs until 2029 (RMC Sport).
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Como's Jacobo Ramon has emerged as an alternative target, though complications exist around Real Madrid's £7 million buyback clause and 50 per cent sell-on rights.
Jacquet is by far the leading target though, and reports suggest that Chelsea are pretty confident they can eventually finalise a deal for the Frenchman this month.
In terms of outgoing, the likes of Raheem Sterling and Axel Disasi, who were Enzo Maresca's previous 'bomb squad' members, are the likeliest to leave by far.
However, as per Romano, Chelsea have also agreed to let an 'exciting talent' depart west London.
Chelsea agree exit deal with Frankie Runham set for Ipswich Town
According to the reliable journalist, that man is Frankie Runham, who will depart for Ipswich Town on loan with an obligation to make the move permanent this summer.
Ipswich Town manager Kieran McKenna reacts after the match
Chelsea also have a buy-back clause if the deal becomes permanent, covering them for if the teenage sensation dazzles at Portman Road.
The 19-year-old winger, who has previously starred for Chelsea's Under-18s, signed his first professional contract in 2024 but has since struggled to break into the first team.
This is despite his impressive displays at academy level, once hitting double figures for both goals and assists across the Under-21s, Under-18s and Under-17s age groups in 2023/2024.
A move away now looks the best solution for Runham to kickstart his pro career, and the Championship will truly test him.
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The Blues are readying a bid for a midfielder, who could replace Enzo Fernandez.