With just a few days of the January transfer window remaining, it is looking as if it is going to be a relatively quiet window for Chelsea.
So far, the most notable business involving the Blues has been the ending of Facundo Buonanotte’s loan. He is currently at Leeds United until the end of the season.
Making no signings will not be for the want of trying though. Chelsea have been linked with a number of additions, including at centre-back.
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Jeremy Jacquet has emerged as the top candidate for this role. He very much suits the BlueCo model that consists of signing younger players.
Jeremy Jacquet of France controls the ball
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Manchester United could scupper Chelsea’s chances at Jeremy Jacquet
Jacquet has chosen Chelsea as his next club despite interest from other top sides in Europe, however a deal has proven difficult to agree with Rennes this month.
The signing would be even more difficult if the Ligue 1 side parted ways with another young talent, and Manchester United are in the conversation to do just this.
Journalist Ed Aarons has stated that the Red Devils are plotting a move for youngster Kader Meite, which would surely reduce their need to part ways with Jacquet.
He said: “Understand that Manchester United are considering stepping up their interest in Kader Meité of Rennes and have held talks with the player’s entourage. The 18-year-old striker is expected to cost around €30m but also has interest from Al Hilal.”
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Chelsea already planning for 2025/26 without Jacquet
It is looking as if a summer move for Jacquet is the more realistic prospect at this stage, not directly addressing Chelsea’s defensive woes in the short-term.
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Borussia Dortmund's Aaron Anselmino and Strasbourg's Mamadou Sarr
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Levi Colwill is still nowhere near making his return from a serious knee injury, and the Blues have been active in the market in an attempt to address this.
Aaron Anselmino has been recalled from his impressive loan spell at Borussia Dortmund, and there is a clause that could allow them to bring back Mamadou Sarr from Strasbourg.
The Jacquet saga looks set to run on, with it likely that even more clubs are going to register an interest in the promising young talent.
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