Beyond the £44m Bid: Inside the secret negotiations for France U21 star | OneFootball

Will Rennes Fold as Chelsea Push for Jeremy Jacquet?

Beyond the £44m Bid: Inside the secret negotiations for France U21 star

Chelsea & Liverpool are in contact with Rennes over young defender Jeremy Jacquet but the French club want him to stay until July 2026.

Big clubs competing for Jacquet

The race to sign Jeremy Jacquet remains open, with several top European clubs showing strong interest in the Rennes centre-back.

Italian transfer expert Fabrizio Romano said on Saturday that the battle is still active confirming that both Chelsea & Liverpool have already started discussions with Rennes and the player’s camp.

Romano also noted that Bayern Munich currently unlikely to enter serious negotiations leaving the main focus on Premier League sides.

Rennes set clear condition

One key detail is that Rennes are insisting Jacquet will not move before July 2026.

The French club want to keep the 20 year-old for at least another season even though interest continues to grow across Europe.

Jacquet is part of France’s U21 setup and is considered one of the most promising young defenders in Ligue 1.

Real Madrid have also been linked with him as they look at future defensive options.

Chelsea push ahead as player prefers London move

Reports suggest Chelsea currently leading the chase. Several sources claim Jacquet is keen on joining the London club and has already agreed on personal terms.

With the January transfer window closing on 2 February at 7 PM GMT, Chelsea working quickly to complete the deal but official approval from Rennes remains the final hurdle.

Chelsea are expected to return to negotiations after Saturday’s matches, with Rennes facing Monaco & Chelsea playing West Ham.

Squad impact at Stamford Bridge

Chelsea’s defensive situation adds urgency to the transfer. Injuries have affected key players including Levi Colwill and Tosin Adarabioyo while Axel Disasi could leave in the coming days.

Head coach Liam Rosenior admitted the club are still looking to strengthen before the deadline especially in central defence.

The arrival of Jacquet could also influence the future of youngster Aaron Anselmino who may be sent out on loan again if Chelsea complete the signing.

Decision expected after key weekend

Jacquet played recently in Rennes’ loss to Lorient and is expected to travel for the Monaco match.