Chelsea Eyes Bundesliga Champion as Jeremy Jacquet Deal Takes Shocking Turn
Chelsea have reportedly set their sights on Bayern Munich defender Kim Min-jae following complications in their chase for Rennes' Jérémy Jacquet.
Jacquet is understood to be Chelsea's primary target for the defensive role, though the 20-year-old won't be available at a bargain price. With interest from Europe's top clubs, Rennes are anticipating a record-breaking transfer fee of up to €70 million (£60.8 million, $82.5 million) to release the defender during the current window.
Given Rennes' determination to retain Jacquet until summer, RMC Sport reports Chelsea are now exploring an offer that would allow the young talent to complete the season with his present club before joining Stamford Bridge in the summer.
Jacquet has reportedly already reached personal agreement with Chelsea, though persuading Rennes to negotiate has proved difficult, and a middle-ground solution may be required to satisfy all involved parties.
While a postponed deal for Jacquet would strengthen Chelsea for next season, it wouldn't address the immediate requirement for defensive additions this month, with new manager Liam Rosenior repeating concerns previously expressed by former coach Enzo Maresca following Levi Colwill's ACL setback.
Kim to Decide on Bayern Munich Future
Kim to Decide on Bayern Munich Future
As reported by Christian Falk, Chelsea have reached out to Kim's agents to express their interest in the South Korean defender.
Kim, who recently celebrated his 29th birthday, hasn't been a consistent starter under Vincent Kompany, featuring in only seven Bundesliga matches this campaign. Bayern are reportedly satisfied with his contributions as a squad player but acknowledge Kim might seek a more prominent role at another club.
Should Kim signal his desire to depart, Bayern would allegedly consider discussions with interested parties like Chelsea to recoup a portion of the €50 million they invested to acquire him from Napoli in summer 2023.
Kim would instantly become the senior-most player in Rosenior's roster if the transfer materialized—exiled winger Raheem Sterling being the only other player beyond 28—and his acquisition would mark a notable shift from Chelsea's typical transfer strategy.
A temporary loan arrangement could work from Chelsea's standpoint but might not interest Bayern, who would require a replacement for the South Korean before the January transfer period concludes.