Chelsea are in talks to sign Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet as the Blues seek to strengthen their backline. The 20-year-old France Under-21 international has caught the attention of Chelsea's coaching staff and could be a potential replacement for Levi Colwill, who sustained a serious knee injury in pre-season.
According to sources, Chelsea have held discussions with Rennes over a January move for Jacquet, who is valued at more than Β£60m. The talks follow an internal decision by the Blues to bring forward plans to sign a centre-back six months early, rather than waiting until the summer transfer window.
While Chelsea are keen on signing Jacquet, rival clubs are also in the running for his services. Como defender Jacabo Ramon and Bournemouth's Marcos Senesi are among other options being considered. Senesi, whose contract expires at the end of the season, is also attracting interest from Juventus.
The desire to sign a ball-playing centre-back came after Colwill sustained an injury, although his recovery is progressing well. There is optimism that he will feature later in the campaign and remains central to Chelsea's long-term plans.
Trevoh Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo are also due to reach a crossroads in the summer when their contracts come up for renewal. Both players have two years remaining on their deals, and either signing new contracts or facing the possibility of being sold could be an option.
With Chelsea's backline in need of strengthening, Jacquet's arrival would provide a significant boost. The French defender has already demonstrated his quality with Rennes and is known to be interested in joining the Blues. However, rival clubs are also vying for his signature, making the deal complicated.
According to sources, Chelsea have held discussions with Rennes over a January move for Jacquet, who is valued at more than Β£60m. The talks follow an internal decision by the Blues to bring forward plans to sign a centre-back six months early, rather than waiting until the summer transfer window.
While Chelsea are keen on signing Jacquet, rival clubs are also in the running for his services. Como defender Jacabo Ramon and Bournemouth's Marcos Senesi are among other options being considered. Senesi, whose contract expires at the end of the season, is also attracting interest from Juventus.
The desire to sign a ball-playing centre-back came after Colwill sustained an injury, although his recovery is progressing well. There is optimism that he will feature later in the campaign and remains central to Chelsea's long-term plans.
Trevoh Chalobah and Tosin Adarabioyo are also due to reach a crossroads in the summer when their contracts come up for renewal. Both players have two years remaining on their deals, and either signing new contracts or facing the possibility of being sold could be an option.
With Chelsea's backline in need of strengthening, Jacquet's arrival would provide a significant boost. The French defender has already demonstrated his quality with Rennes and is known to be interested in joining the Blues. However, rival clubs are also vying for his signature, making the deal complicated.