Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, with the Blues closing in on a big deal in January as negotiations between the two clubs intensify.
Fabrizio Romano says Chelsea have already agreed personal terms with the highly-rated 20-year-old and are preparing a contract, with the player fully committed to a move.
The remaining hurdle is reaching a fee agreement with Rennes.
Chelsea officials fly to France to sign Jeremy Jacquet
According to Romano, Chelsea’s current offer is lower than Rennes’ valuation, but negotiations are accelerating.
Rennes are thought to be aiming to sell him for around 65 million euros, which would be the club’s highest ever price. In a clear sign of intent, Chelsea officials traveled to France to push the deal over the line before the January deadline closes.
Romano reported on X as follows:
“Chelsea have agreed personal terms with Jeremy Jacquet, who is clearly their main target at centre-back. The deal is ready, the player is motivated and negotiations continue with Rennes, who are seeking a sale price of around 65 million euros, the highest in the club’s history. #CFC’s bid is currently lower than this. A mission to France has already taken place.”
Why Jeremy Jacquet is Chelsea’s top defensive target
If Chelsea can close the gap, they will sign one of Ligue 1’s outstanding defensive players for the 2025/26 season.
Since returning from his loan spell at Clermont, Jacquet has established himself as Rennes’ defensive leader, combining elite physicality with modern ball-playing ability, a profile that strongly appealed to Chelsea’s recruitment team.
Jacquet’s great performance at Rennes
His physical profile fits the Premier League mold perfectly, but it is his statistical output that has caught the eye of Chelsea’s recruitment team.
So far this season, Jacquet ranks in the 95th percentile for interceptions among Ligue 1 defenders, highlighting his elite anticipation and ability to read the game.
But he’s more than just a destroyer. He is also comfortable playing from the back, boasting an 88% pass completion rate and ranks high in progressive carries from the defense.
His aggressive, front-footed style has seen him win 64% of his ground battles this season, adding a layer of grit to Chelsea’s backline that has been missing at times.
At just 20 years old, he represents both an immediate athletic improvement and a long-term investment in the Blues’ defense.
The next few days will be decisive as personal terms have been agreed and negotiations are underway. Chelsea’s willingness to travel and advance negotiations suggests growing confidence that a compromise can be achieved.
If the deal goes through, Jeremy Jacquet will become one of the most expensive defensive additions in Chelsea’s history and will be a clear statement of intent during the January contract period.
