Chelsea are preparing a formal offer to sign Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet in January Fabrice Hawkins.
Jacquet came into the spotlight at the 2024 European Championships, where his performances earned him a place in the UEFA Under-19 Team of the Tournament, the only player from the French team to clinch the spot.
He has carried that momentum onto the international stage, earning five caps for Gérald Baticle’s France Under-21 side, one of which he played the full 90 minutes against Switzerland.
Nationally, the 20-year-old has stood out in Ligue 1, with FBref data highlighting his influence this season with averages of 1.71 interceptions and 1.96 clearances per 90 minutes.
Although his performances last season attracted club interest, Chelsea are now taking the most concrete steps to secure his signature.
This is what a renowned French transfer expert says Fabrice Hawkinswho claims the Blues have made Jacquet their ‘priority’ target in the ongoing winter transfer window.
The journalist adds that the London giants are currently in talks with Rennes to discuss the possible valuation involved in the deal for the 6-foot-1 centre-back’s potential transfer to Stamford Bridge.
Although the Ligue 1 club are looking to recoup a significant sum from Jacquet’s sale, Chelsea’s hierarchy are prepared to submit a formal opening bid of £43 million to sign the France U21 star.
Reinforcement
In another development TalkSPORT‘S Ben Jacobs reports that Rennes are expecting a fee higher than the £55 million they received from Manchester City for Jeremy Doku, and it remains to be seen whether Chelsea will be willing to meet their demands.
Chelsea have felt the absence of Levi Colwill all season, with the England defender sidelined by a serious injury sustained before the season had even started.
By choosing not to recruit new cover, the club has suffered the consequences, with Tosin Adarabioyo and Benoit Badiashile underperforming when called upon.
Chelsea currently rank 18th in the Premier League for success in aerial matches and 12th in terms of winning percentage in ground matches, highlighting their weakness.
This is an area where Jacquet excels, having won 70 of his ground duels and 71.4% of his contested aerial duels this season.
His 64 recoveries and 17 interceptions are also exceptional defensive attributes, while his sky-high 91.0% successful passing rate would prove useful in Liam Rosenior’s build-up if the Blues complete their bid to sign him.
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