Chelsea in Negotiations for Defender Jérémy Jacquet

Chelsea FC has entered into discussions with Rennes regarding a potential transfer of defender Jérémy Jacquet, as reported by sources from ESPN.

Initially, Chelsea had intended to maintain a low profile in the transfer market this month, planning to strengthen their squad during the summer window. However, escalating interest from rival clubs in the 20-year-old has prompted the Blues to expedite their efforts.

Jacquet, who represents France at the under-21 level, is reportedly receptive to a move to the Premier League. Nonetheless, Rennes is demanding a fee exceeding €60 million (£69.72 million) and is in a favorable negotiating position, with Jacquet’s current contract extending until 2029.

Personal terms are not anticipated to pose any challenges, and Chelsea is aiming to advance discussions with Rennes in the upcoming days.

A product of the Rennes academy, Jacquet made his professional debut in January 2024 and has since made 16 appearances this season, although he faced disciplinary issues, receiving a red card during a 5-0 defeat against Paris Saint-Germain last month.

The initiative to secure a central defender comes after former head coach Enzo Maresca was informed last summer that the club would refrain from signing a central defender, following a serious injury to Levi Colwill.

At that time, Chelsea expressed interest in acquiring Dean Huijsen, who ultimately chose to join Real Madrid. Consequently, the club opted to wait for premier targets to become available rather than respond to Maresca’s request immediately.

Should negotiations for Jacquet fail to reach a conclusion, Chelsea may revisit their interest in Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi, whose contract expires at the end of the season, although there has been no recent communication between the clubs.

Additionally, Chelsea is monitoring Como defender Jacabo Ramón, who is also attracting interest from Real Madrid.

Chelsea’s ability to maneuver in the transfer market is complicated by the need to comply with sanctions related to a breach of UEFA’s financial regulations. They are required to maintain a positive balance in player trading concerning their Champions League squad, although sources within the club assert that there is flexibility to acquire a player if necessary.

Colwill is making good progress following knee surgery and is expected to return before the conclusion of the season.