Report: Chelsea close in on major January signing with terms already agreed | OneFootball

Chelsea advance talks for Rennes defender amid Arsenal interest

Chelsea have taken a significant step in the pursuit of Jeremy Jacquet, agreeing personal terms with the Rennes defender while acknowledging that further work is required to complete a deal. As reported by Metro, the Blues must still improve their offer if they are to beat off competition and satisfy Rennes’ valuation.

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Rosenior shaping defensive priorities

Since replacing Enzo Maresca earlier this month, Liam Rosenior has moved quickly to assess Chelsea’s structural needs. Results have been mixed so far, with victories over Charlton in the FA Cup and Brentford in the Premier League either side of a Carabao Cup semi-final first-leg defeat to Arsenal.

Rosenior has publicly praised the quality within his squad, yet privately there is recognition that defensive reinforcements are required. Maresca was left disappointed last summer when no replacement arrived for the injured Levi Colwill, and Rosenior is keen to avoid a repeat scenario during the closing weeks of the January window.

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Rennes stance and valuation challenge

Chelsea’s interest in Jacquet is not new. The club first tracked the French centre-back six months ago and have accelerated talks since the window opened. Jacquet signed a contract extension with Rennes in May, but with an understanding that he could be sold if a suitable bid arrived.

That threshold remains high. Rennes are holding out for a club record fee of around £56m and it is claimed Jacquet is excited by the prospect of joining Chelsea. However, Chelsea have so far been reluctant to exceed £50m and are hoping Rennes soften their stance.

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Arsenal’s continued admiration complicates matters. The Gunners’ interest gives Rennes leverage, particularly for a player tipped as a future France international.

Context of potential and timing

At 20, Jacquet already carries pedigree. He starred in France Under-19s’ run to the Euro 2024 final and was named in the Team of the Tournament. Chelsea’s hierarchy remain calm about timing, having yet to complete a January signing, but there is an understanding that defensive needs cannot be deferred indefinitely.

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Agreeing personal terms suggests intent, and Chelsea fans have grown used to the club moving decisively once a priority target is identified. There is also relief that the focus appears to be on defensive balance rather than another wave of attacking talent.

Supporters remember the frustration last season when injuries exposed a lack of depth at centre-back. Hearing that Rosenior shares those concerns builds confidence in his early judgment. Jacquet’s age profile fits Chelsea’s long-term recruitment model, but his experience at youth international level suggests he is not being signed purely for potential.

The hesitation around the £56m valuation will resonate with fans. Chelsea have spent heavily in recent years and there is an appetite for smarter negotiation rather than automatic escalation. Arsenal’s interest may push the price up, but supporters will trust the club to walk away if numbers stop making sense.

There is also excitement. A young defender described as a future France international arriving ahead of a direct rival would feel like a statement. Chelsea fans want progress to look purposeful and coherent. This deal, if completed, would tick both boxes.