Image Credits: Imago Images
Defensive reinforcements dominating the wish lists of plenty of European giants ahead of the summer window, with the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea, and Bayern Munich all keen on Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet. The 20-year-old Frenchman has emerged as one of the most coveted young defenders in Europe following a breakthrough campaign in Ligue 1.
He has started 17 of Rennes’ 18 Ligue 1 fixtures and Jacquet’s performances have not gone unnoticed on the international stage either. He represented France at multiple youth levels and was named in the UEFA European Under-19 Championship Team of the Tournament in 2024, despite France losing in the final to Spain. He has since earned five caps for France’s Under-21 side and is widely regarded as a future senior international.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed Liverpool interest, suggesting that a saga could develop between the interested parties and that his transfer is definitely one to watch for the summer.
Now Sky Sports reporter Kaveh Solhekol has taken to X to report that the Frenchman prefers a move to Chelsea over other options:
“Jeremy Jacquet has expressed preference for joining Chelsea despite interest from other clubs. Talks are ongoing between Rennes and Chelsea about a deal for the 20-year-old centre back. Ideally, Rennes want to keep him until the summer. Not easy deal in January.”
With Slot’s future at Anfield shrouded in uncertainty following a dismal run of form that has seen the Reds slip to sixth in the Premier League, Liverpool may struggle to compete with Chelsea’s ability to offer long-term contracts and guaranteed Champions League football next season.
Fabrizio Romano has indicated that any January move for Jacquet is now off the table, with a summer bidding war expected to develop between Liverpool, Chelsea, Bayern Munich and potentially others. Whether Liverpool can convince Jacquet to snub Chelsea’s advances remains to be seen.
Jeremy Jacquet has expressed preference for joining Chelsea despite interest from other clubs. Talks are ongoing between Rennes and Chelsea about a deal for the 20-year-old centre back. Ideally, Rennes want to keep him until the summer. Not easy deal in January.
— Kaveh Solhekol (@SkyKaveh) January 27, 2026
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