Report: Chelsea considering move to sign 20-year-old defender | OneFootball

Chelsea weigh Jeremy Jacquet move as deadline pressure builds

Chelsea’s late window business has focused sharply on Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, with Stamford Bridge decision makers weighing whether to meet the French club’s valuation in time to secure a deal. A report from TEAMtalk paints a picture of a transfer that has moved from tentative interest to serious internal debate.

Jacquet, widely regarded as one of Rennes’ most promising defensive assets, has already signalled his preference. As TEAMtalk reported, the player has made it clear his priority is a move to west London, and that stance has held firm despite rival interest. Player intent often shapes modern transfers, and in this case it adds urgency to Chelsea’s calculations.

Deadline talks gather pace

Negotiations appear to have accelerated. TEAMtalk state, “And in the last 24 hours, we can confirm that Chelsea have intimated during talks with Rennes that they want a deal done, with the London club now exploring the final mechanisms required to get it over the line in time.” That line captures both intent and tension, a club keen to act, yet still working through structure and price.

Chelsea’s recruitment model has leaned heavily on youth, resale value, and long term squad building. Jacquet fits that profile, a defender with physical presence and development runway. Supporters have seen the strategy bring mixed results, so each incoming deal now carries added scrutiny.

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Player swap options discussed

TEAMtalk outline several creative routes. “Sources indicate that player involved structures have been discussed, including the possibility of Axel Disasi moving the other way or youngster Tyrique George being added to negotiations.” Such constructions reflect how clubs try to bridge valuation gaps late in a window.

Another possibility involves Aaron Anselmino heading to Rennes on loan after his recall from Borussia Dortmund. Rennes have also shown curiosity about Mamadou Sarr and Ismael Doukoure. Each name underlines how interconnected modern squad planning has become, where one deal can influence three others.

At present, “the ball is firmly in Chelsea’s court,” according to TEAMtalk. Rennes are waiting, holding close to their number, and watching whether Chelsea move decisively. Jacquet, meanwhile, sits on standby, his immediate future tied to boardroom calls and document exchanges rather than performances on grass.

Wider market movements shape strategy

Jacquet is not the only Rennes player on Chelsea’s radar. Forward Mohamed Kader Meite attracted attention, but Al Hilal moved quickly to secure him. That outcome may sharpen Chelsea’s focus on Jacquet, a reminder that hesitation can carry cost.

Elsewhere, David Datro Fofana’s situation adds another layer. Chelsea have received an offer from Al Sadd after recalling him from Turkey. With Roberto Mancini’s side exploring a loan, Chelsea must balance outgoing and incoming business. There is also mention of a former player declining a return, another example of how unpredictable windows can be.

Taken together, these strands show a club still shaping its identity in the market. Jacquet could be another brick in a youthful, high ceiling squad, or a missed opportunity if numbers do not align. Either way, the final days promise movement, discussion, and plenty of debate among the fanbase.

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Jacquet sounds like the type of defender the club has targeted in recent years; young, athletic, and mouldable. Fans will appreciate that he wants the move, that desire often translates into commitment once the shirt is on.

There is, however, natural concern about price discipline. Chelsea have spent heavily across multiple windows, and supporters now look for smarter deals, not just more deals. If Rennes are holding out for a premium figure, many fans would want the club to negotiate firmly rather than overpay.

The mention of potential player exchanges sparks mixed feelings. Some may be open to using squad players to unlock a deal, others worry about losing depth. Disasi, for example, still has backers who feel he can grow into a reliable option.

Overall, Chelsea fans might see Jacquet as a positive addition, provided the structure makes sense. The mood would be hopeful, but measured, with trust placed in the recruitment team to land value as well as talent.