Chelsea Intensifies Pursuit of Star Defender as Blues Weigh Three Elite Transfer Targets
Chelsea are said to be preparing an offer for Rennes defender Jérémy Jacquet after placing the 20-year-old at the summit of their three-player wishlist.
After rejecting ex-manager Enzo Maresca's public request for defensive reinforcement during the summer transfer window—an issue that sparked the friction leading to his departure—Chelsea are now willing to pursue a centre-back in January for new manager Liam Rosenior.
Instead of seeking a temporary solution, Chelsea are believed to be looking to accelerate a transfer for what numerous sources have characterized as a "premium" acquisition, with Jacquet becoming the Blues' primary choice.
Fabrizio Romano disclosed that Chelsea have engaged in direct discussions with Rennes regarding Jacquet, whom the Blues aim to secure in January ahead of several top European clubs making their approaches in the summer.
Furthermore, RMC Sport report that Chelsea representatives have expressed readiness to offer €50 million (£43.4 million, $58 million) for the promising 20-year-old, falling slightly below Rennes' valuation of €60 million.
Jacquet Tops Chelsea's Three-Player Shortlist
Jacquet Tops Chelsea's Three-Player Shortlist
When reports of Chelsea's pursuit of an immediate transfer for Jacquet initially emerged, various sources mentioned a trio of potential options with the Frenchman at the forefront.
Information regarding the other players being evaluated has been scarce, but the Daily Mail identifies Como's Jacobó Ramon and Bournemouth's Marcos Senesi as backup options.
Ramon, 21, is having an impressive campaign with Como following his departure from Real Madrid last summer, though he wouldn't be an easy acquisition as Los Blancos have secured themselves with various provisions, including a sell-on percentage and the right to re-acquire the prospect for merely €8 million (£6.9 million, $9.3 million).
Senesi, conversely, doesn't align with the typical Blues strategy as he is nearing his 29th birthday, but it seems he is considered a "market opportunity"—the terminology frequently used in transfer discussions.
With extensive Premier League experience and a deal expiring at season's end, Senesi would cost significantly less than both Jacquet and Ramon but may not represent the perfect target from ownership's perspective.