Chelsea officials are heading to Europe to complete a deal for the €65 million star
Chelsea are stepping up their pursuit of Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, and the Blues are now closing in on a big January signing as talks intensify between the two clubs.
According to Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have already agreed personal terms with the 20-year-old, with a contract prepared and the player fully committed to the move.
The remaining hurdle is striking a fee agreement with Rennes.
Chelsea officials are heading to France to secure a deal for Jeremy Jacquet
Romano reports that Chelsea’s current offer falls below Rennes’ price, but talks are growing.
Rennes are believed to still be waiting for a club record sale of around 65 million euros. In a clear sign of intent, Chelsea officials have traveled to France in an attempt to push through a deal before the January window closes.
Romano reported to X:
“Chelsea have agreed personal terms with Jeremy Jacquet, clearly keen on the centre-back. Contract ready, player ready and talks ongoing with Rennes asking for a club record €65m sale. #CFC’s lowest bid yet. The move to France is done.”
?? Chelsea have agreed personal terms with Jeremy Jacquet, a clear target for the defender.
The contract is ready, the player is willing and negotiations are ongoing with Rennes asking for a club record sale fee of around €65m.#CFC the bid is currently low. The mission to France has already taken place. ???? pic.twitter.com/ZEHP19DdkX
– Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 18, 2026
Why Jeremy Jacquet is Chelsea’s top defensive target
If Chelsea manage to close the balance gap, they will be getting one of Ligue 1’s best defenders for the 2025/26 season.
Since returning from his loan spell at Clermont, Jacquet has established himself as Rennes’ defensive leader, combining modern footballing ability, a profile that is very attractive to Chelsea’s recruitment team.
Jacquet’s impressive figures at Rennes
His physical profile fits the Premier League mold well, but it’s his statistical output that has caught the attention of Chelsea’s suitors.
So far this season, Jacquet is ranked in the 95th percentile in passing among Ligue 1 defenders, highlighting his high ambition and ability to read the game.
However, he is not just a destroyer; he is comfortable playing in the back, boasts an 88% passing rate and ranks high in progressive defenses.
His aggressive, front-foot style has seen him win 64% of his ground balls this season, adding a layer of grit to a Chelsea backline that has been lacking at times.
At just 20 years old, he represents both a quick athletic development and a long-term investment for the Blues defense.
With personal terms agreed and negotiations ongoing, the coming days will be decisive. Chelsea’s willingness to go ahead with negotiations suggests growing confidence that a deal can be reached.
If the deal is completed, Jeremy Jacquet will be one of the most expensive defensive players in Chelsea’s history, and a clear statement of intent in the January window.
