Time is running out for Chelsea to make a first-team signing this month, with the January transfer window closing next week.
Even so, it looks like the Blues are remaining optimistic and still hope to bring in a player or two before the deadline.
It has been widely reported that Chelsea want to sign a midfielder and central defender. Douglas Luiz has picked Aston Villa over the Club World Cup winners, so they may not be able to land a midfielder until the summer.
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Chelsea midfielder Romeo Lavia preparing a pass and Manchester United midfielder Kobbie Mainoo jogging
Credit: Shaun Brooks – CameraSport/Catherine Ivill – AMA via Getty Images
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However, there is still a slim possibility of the club signing a centre-back, it seems.
Rennes' French defender #42 Jeremy Jacquet (L) fights for the ball with Nice's French midfielder #32 Tom Alexis
Photo by DAMIEN MEYER/AFP via Getty Images
Chelsea believe Jeremy Jacquet will become ‘one of the best centre-backs in the world’
Chelsea are keen on Rennes’ Jeremy Jacquet and are not giving up on signing the 20-year-old despite his club’s reluctance to sell him this month.
Journalist Simon Phillips has reported on Si Phillips Talks Chelsea that the Conference League holders still want to buy Jacquet now but are also willing to strike a pre-agreement.
According to Phillips, Chelsea believe Jacquet will become “one of the best centre-backs in the world” one day, hence their determination to bring the Frenchman to Stamford Bridge.
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Chelsea have recalled Aaron Anselmino and also have the likes of Trevoh Chalobah, Benoit Badiashile and Wesley Fofana.
If they cannot land Jacquet before next Monday’s deadline, in terms of numbers, Liam Rosenior should still have enough centre-back options to finish the season.
Jérémy Jacquet of France, centre, celebrates
Photo by Ramsey Cardy – Sportsfile/UEFA via Getty Images
Jeremy Jacquet’s preferred club
It is no surprise that Chelsea are trying to wrap up a deal for Jacquet now. The Rennes star is attracting interest from some of Europe’s other top clubs.
However, it is thought that Chelsea are Jacquet’s preference, giving the Blues an advantage.
At this stage, though, it would be a surprise if they managed to land him during this transfer window. A move does not look possible until the summer.
Rennes have no interest in selling Jacquet now, so Chelsea will either have to wait or sign another centre-half if their French counterparts do not change their stance.
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