Chelsea have shifted their defensive focus to Rennes’ rising star Jérémy Jacquet after missing out on Marc Guehi. With Guehi opting for a permanent move to Manchester City, the Blues are now working to secure the young Frenchman before the January window closes.
The Post-Guehi Strategy
The defensive line remains the priority for Chelsea’s board this winter. After a long pursuit of Marc Guehi, the former Academy graduate’s decision to join Manchester City forced a tactical pivot at Stamford Bridge. Enter Jérémy Jacquet, the 20-year-old Rennes standout who has emerged as the leading candidate to bolster Liam Rosenior’s squad.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Chelsea have been monitoring Jacquet’s rapid ascent in Ligue 1 for months. Rosenior, who is reportedly a huge admirer of the defender’s technical ability, has already given the “green light” for the operation.
Fabrizio Romano: Agreement in Principle
In a significant development, Fabrizio Romano reports that Chelsea have already reached an agreement in principle with Jacquet regarding personal terms. The player is keen on the move to London, seeing it as the perfect step for his career.
However, the hurdle remains the negotiations with Stade Rennais. The French club, despite their inconsistent form in Ligue 1, views Jacquet as their “crown jewel.”
- Rennes’ Asking Price: €65 million.
- Chelsea’s Current Stance: The initial offer from the Blues remains “well below” the valuation, but the board is confident that a middle ground can be reached through performance-based add-ons.
A New French Revolution at Stamford Bridge?
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Jacquet’s profile fits the “BlueCo” scouting model perfectly: young, physically dominant, and comfortable playing in a high line. While Rennes is notoriously difficult to negotiate with, the London giants are expected to remain at the table until the final hours of the window to ensure Rosenior gets his man.
Siara Costa is a football editor and writer covering both European men’s and women’s football, with a focus on league competitions, match coverage, and in-depth storytelling.
