Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, with the Blues now edging closer to a major January signing as talks intensify between the two clubs.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have already agreed personal terms with the highly rated 20-year-old, with a contract prepared and the player fully committed to the move.
The remaining hurdle is striking a fee agreement with Rennes.
Chelsea officials fly to France to secure Jeremy Jacquet deal
Romano reports that Chelsea’s current offer falls below Rennes’ valuation, but negotiations are accelerating.
Rennes are believed to be holding out for a club-record sale of around €65 million. In a clear sign of intent, Chelsea officials have travelled to France in an effort to push the deal over the line before the January window closes.
Romano reported on X:
“Chelsea have agreed personal terms with Jeremy Jacquet, the clear main target at centre back. Contract ready, player keen and talks ongoing with Rennes asking for club record sale fee around €65m. #CFC bid currently lower. A mission to France already took place.”
?? Chelsea have agreed personal terms with Jeremy Jacquet, the clear main target at centre back.
Contract ready, player keen and talks ongoing with Rennes asking for club record sale fee around €65m.#CFC bid currently lower. A mission to France already took place. ???? pic.twitter.com/ZEHP19DdkX
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 18, 2026
Why Jeremy Jacquet Is Chelsea’s top defensive target
If Chelsea manage to bridge the valuation gap, they will be landing one of Ligue 1’s standout defensive performers of the 2025/26 season.
Since returning from a loan spell at Clermont, Jacquet has established himself as a defensive leader for Rennes, combining elite physicality with modern ball-playing ability, a profile that strongly appeals to Chelsea’s recruitment team.
Jacquet’s impressive stats at Rennes
His physical profile fits the Premier League mould perfectly,…
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