Chelsea in talks for Ligue 1 star | OneFootball

Chelsea Accelerate Plans in Talks With Rennes Over Defensive Reinforcement

Chelsea’s transfer strategy has shifted gear. According to ESPN, the club have opened discussions with Rennes over a potential move for Jérémy Jacquet, reflecting a decision to act sooner than initially planned. The Blues had intended a quiet winter before addressing defensive needs in the summer, but growing interest from rival clubs has prompted earlier movement.

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Jacquet, a France under 21 international, is understood to be open to a Premier League switch. Rennes, however, are negotiating from a position of strength. They value the 20 year old at more than 60 million euros, with his contract running until 2029. Personal terms are not expected to pose a problem, and Chelsea are aiming to progress talks in the coming days.

Context Behind Chelsea’s Defensive Push

The pursuit of a centre back has been shaped by recent history. Last summer, former head coach Enzo Maresca was informed that no central defender would be added following a serious injury to Levi Colwill. Chelsea had explored a deal for Dean Huijsen, but he opted for Real Madrid, leading the club to pause and wait for top targets rather than compromise.

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Jacquet fits the profile Chelsea have been monitoring. A Rennes academy graduate, he made his senior debut in January 2024 and has featured 16 times this season. His campaign has included a learning moment, a red card in a 5-0 defeat to Paris Saint-Germain, but Chelsea see that as part of development rather than deterrent.

Alternative Options and Financial Considerations

Should negotiations with Rennes stall, Chelsea could revisit interest in Marcos Senesi of Bournemouth, whose contract expires at the end of the season, although there has been no contact so far. Another name on the radar is Jacobo Ramón from Como, also tracked by Real Madrid.

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Chelsea’s ability to act is complicated by the need to comply with sanctions related to breaches of UEFA financial rules. The club must record a positive balance in player trading for their Champions League squad, though sources insist flexibility remains. Encouragingly, Colwill is progressing well from knee surgery and is expected to return before season’s end.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

Jacquet represents the kind of profile Chelsea fans expect, young, high ceiling, and capable of developing into a long term starter.

There is, however, understandable anxiety around the price. Sixty million euros for a 20 year old with limited top level experience is a significant outlay, particularly given the club’s financial constraints. Supporters will want clarity on pathway and role, not another expensive addition struggling for minutes.

At the same time, many fans recognise the context. Defensive depth has been thin, injuries have exposed vulnerabilities, and waiting indefinitely carries its own risk. If Chelsea truly believe Jacquet is a cornerstone for the next phase, accelerating plans makes sense. The key, as supporters often stress, is coherence. One well chosen defender who fits the system and is trusted to grow would be welcomed far more than another short term fix.