As the January transfer window nears its conclusion, Chelsea are ramping up their efforts to land Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, despite the Ligue 1 club holding firm on a £60m price tag.
The 18-year-old centre-back has impressed in Ligue 1 and already made his senior debut for France. He is seen as one of the brightest young talents in French football, attracting attention from several top clubs across Europe.
There have been mixed reports about whether personal terms have been agreed between Jacquet and Chelsea, but it’s understood the player is keen on a move to Stamford Bridge. The club spent heavily last summer, and although they’re interested in bringing him in this window, they aren’t willing to meet Rennes’ asking price.
Rennes feel they’ll need to replace him if he leaves this month. While nothing new has come from those reports since then, it does highlight that Rennes are bracing for life after Jacquet.
Rennes move to replace Jacquet ahead of expected exit
Rennes boss Habib Beye has been vocal about wanting to keep Jeremy Jacquet, but recent reports indicate the club is preparing for life without him. The 18-year-old hasn’t even hit 30 senior appearances yet, but there’s a sense at Rennes that his time is up.
According to Jeunes Footeux, Rennes have turned their attention to Copenhagen defender Ousmane Diao as Jacquet’s potential replacement. If they’re already lining up successors, it suggests they’re bracing for his departure.
Diao is reportedly valued at £17m and isn’t short on suitors. While Chelsea have shown interest, Crystal Palace, Fulham and Bournemouth are also keeping tabs on him, along with several clubs from Germany.
Chelsea’s backup plans if a deal for Jacquet falls through
Jacquet seems increasingly likely to leave Rennes in the next couple of weeks, but whether Chelsea can strike a deal remains unclear. Rennes are standing firm on their asking price.
Chelsea have also been linked with other centre-backs, and there are suggestions that the Blues could turn their attention to Bournemouth’s Marcos Senesi. The Argentine defender is reportedly favoured over Jacobo Ramon.
For now, with Wednesday’s match against Pafos approaching, Rosenior isn’t expected to rush Tosin back after he tweaked his hamstring against Brentford. Fofana, Chalobah and Badiashile are all fit and available.
