Chelsea is still in talks with French football club Rennes to secure a transfer for promising young defender Jeremy Jacquet. Despite interest from other top teams, including Arsenal and Bayern Munich, Jacquet is reportedly holding out for a move to Chelsea. The London club has been scouting the 20-year-old for some time and sees him as their primary target to strengthen their defense before the transfer deadline.
Jacquet, who is in only his second full season as a professional, is highly regarded in French football and was heavily linked with Arsenal last summer. However, it seems that Chelsea has now surpassed Arsenal as the frontrunners to sign him, with reports stating that personal terms have already been agreed upon. The Blues, however, have been unable to reach an agreement with Rennes over the transfer fee for Jacquet, with the French club valuing him at around £56 million.
Chelsea's reluctance to spend such a large sum of money on Jacquet may change if Rennes does not lower their asking price. There is also a possibility that Chelsea could sign Jacquet in the winter transfer window and loan him back to Rennes for the remainder of the season, as the French club is determined to keep hold of their young star.
Despite the lack of progress in negotiations, Jacquet has expressed a preference for a move to Chelsea, which could be a decisive factor in his future. Bayern Munich and Liverpool are also interested in the young defender, but he seems to have his heart set on a move to Stamford Bridge. Jacquet's contract with Rennes runs until 2029.
Rennes manager Habib Beye has made it clear that he does not want to lose Jacquet, who he considers to be one of the best players in his team. He believes that the Frenchman is essential to their objectives and resisting offers from top clubs could lower their expectations. However, he also acknowledges that he does not have control over certain factors and anything could happen in the coming days.
Beye believes that it would be beneficial for everyone involved if Jacquet stays at Rennes and continues his development, including Chelsea. He sees the potential for the young defender to continue improving and attracting even more attention in the next five months. Ultimately, the decision will be up to Jacquet, but Beye will continue to support him and help him progress in his career.
