Chelsea Push Ahead With Jeremy Jacquet Talks As Rennes Hold Firm On Fee
Sports Updated: 18 January 2026 20:00 EAT
Chelsea have intensified negotiations for Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet after reaching an agreement on personal terms with the French defender, according to multiple reports. The 20-year-old is understood to be keen on the move to Stamford Bridge, with contractual details already settled between the player and the Premier League club .
Despite progress on the player side, the transfer remains incomplete due to differences in valuation between the two clubs. Rennes are demanding a club-record transfer fee, widely reported to be in the region of €65 million, a figure Chelsea are yet to meet in their current proposal .
Sources indicate that Chelsea have already dispatched representatives to France as part of efforts to narrow the gap and accelerate talks. The visit underlined the seriousness of Chelsea’s interest but stopped short of producing a breakthrough agreement with Rennes .
Rennes are in a strong negotiating position, with Jacquet tied to a long-term contract and regarded as a key asset in their squad. The French club had not planned to sell the defender during the current window and are therefore insisting on a premium fee to sanction a mid-season exit .
Chelsea’s pursuit of Jacquet is driven by the need to reinforce their defence amid injuries and inconsistent form at centre-back. The club views the France youth international as a long-term solution who fits their recruitment strategy focused on young, high-potential talent .
Interest from other European clubs has also been reported, adding further pressure to the negotiations. While Chelsea remain at the front of the race, Rennes are aware of the wider market interest and are using it to maintain their firm stance on valuation .
As talks continue, optimism remains that a compromise could still be reached before the window closes. However, with Rennes holding out for a record fee and Chelsea reluctant to overpay, the outcome of the deal remains finely balanced .
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FELIX MAKONA
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