Chelsea are reportedly in discussions to sign Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet during the ongoing winter transfer window, as the Blues look to strengthen their defensive options amid a busy season.

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Jacquet on Chelsea’s Radar

The 20-year-old French defender, who has featured 17 times for Rennes this season, has attracted attention from several top clubs. Chelsea have held talks with both Rennes and Jacquet’s agent about a potential move. However, sources indicate that Rennes are valuing Jacquet at over £60 million for a January transfer.

Despite the high fee, Jacquet is reportedly keen on a move to Stamford Bridge, although Chelsea face competition from multiple clubs also tracking the France Under-21 international.

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Chelsea Accelerate Defensive Plans

Chelsea’s interest in Jacquet comes after an internal decision to accelerate plans for signing a centre-back by six months, instead of waiting for the summer transfer window. The move reflects the club’s desire to bolster defensive options midway through the season following injury concerns and squad management considerations.

Alternative defensive targets are also being monitored. Como’s Jacabo Ramon, attracting interest from Real Madrid, and Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi, whose contract expires at the end of the season and is reportedly also on Juventus’ radar, are among Chelsea’s options. However, as of now, Bournemouth has not received formal contact from Chelsea.

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Previous Transfer Strategies

Chelsea had previously explored signing a centre-back during former manager Enzo Maresca’s tenure last summer, but their key target, Dean Huijsen, opted to join Real Madrid instead. This left Chelsea seeking alternatives, but no suitable replacement was identified at the time. The transfer frustrations were among the early challenges that contributed to Maresca’s eventual mid-season departure.

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Injury Concerns and Squad Depth

The push to sign a ball-playing centre-back comes after Levi Colwill suffered a serious knee injury during pre-season. Although Colwill’s recovery is progressing well and he is expected to return later in the campaign, Chelsea are keen to ensure sufficient defensive depth.

Additionally, Chelsea face important contract decisions regarding Trevoh Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo, both of whom will have two years remaining on their contracts this summer. The club must decide whether to renew their deals or consider potential sales, adding further urgency to defensive reinforcements.

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What Jacquet Brings to Chelsea

Jacquet is regarded as a modern, ball-playing centre-back, capable of building attacks from the back while maintaining solid defensive discipline. His versatility, composure under pressure, and experience in France’s top division at such a young age make him a highly sought-after target for Premier League clubs.

For Chelsea, securing Jacquet would signal a long-term investment in defence, complementing their existing options and aligning with the club’s strategy of nurturing young talent while competing at the highest level.

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Looking Ahead

With January transfers often unpredictable, Chelsea’s pursuit of Jacquet highlights their determination to strengthen defensively mid-season. The next few weeks will likely determine whether Jacquet joins Stamford Bridge in January or remains a summer transfer target, amid competing interest from top European clubs.