Jeremy Jacquet: Man United discover biggest rival in pursuit of French defensive sensation | OneFootball

Manchester United fans have just been informed where the club stand in the Jeremy Jacquet transfer race.

The Stade Rennais star is rapidly emerging as one of the most sought-after defenders in Europe.

At just 20 years old, Jacquet is attracting the attention of elite clubs with his assured and composed presence at the heart of Rennes’ defence.

His knack for dribbling out of danger despite being a centre-back, combined with his aerial threat from set-pieces, composure on the ball, and ability to pick out teammates to launch attacks, has led many to admit he possesses something special.

United among the big clubs chasing Jacquet

Unsurprisingly, his brilliance has not gone unnoticed. Manchester United scouts have placed him firmly on their radar.

Yet the Red Devils are far from alone in their pursuit, as almost every major European club has shown interest in Jacquet.

On the surface, the race appears open. But is it really so?

Premier League rivals lead the chase

According to Le Parisien, the contest may not be as wide open as it seems. One club is pushing harder than the rest, and unfortunately for United, it is Chelsea.

“While virtually all the top clubs looking for a central defender could be considered potential suitors, some have already entered a more concrete phase,” the French outlet reports.

“At the top of the list is Chelsea, currently fourth in the Premier League, who have repeatedly mobilised their scouts to watch him. Their interest goes well beyond a simple phone call. Rennes are fully aware of the intense attention the English club have shown in their player for several weeks.”

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Any deal, however, would only be struck in the summer, as Rennes are firmly against losing their 6ft 2in defender mid-season.

Ball in INEOS’ court

If INEOS are genuinely intent on landing Jacquet, this update from France should serve as a wake-up call. It ought to spur them into action, making the necessary moves to rival the Blues for the next French defensive superstar.

Given how reliant United head coach Ruben Amorim’s system is on centre-backs, and with United’s ongoing injury struggles at the back, the need for quality defensive reinforcements is pressing.

INEOS cannot afford to let the Portuguese tactician down.

Featured image Clive Mason via Getty Images

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