Chelsea to make the same mistake again as club-record agreement neared after breakthrough in talks
Chelsea are nearing an agreement for the signing of France youth international defender Jeremy Jacquet.
Football Insider revealed on Monday that Liverpool are tracking Jacquet among several clubs in the Premier League and Europe.
The Stade Rennais centre-back has been hugely impressive in Ligue 1 this season, and has also been linked to the likes of Arsenal and Real Madrid.
Chelsea beat Brentford 2-0 on Saturday, marking their first Premier League win under Liam Rosenior and their first clean sheet in nine games across all competitions.
The defence has been hugely problematic for Chelsea this season, but decision-makers will hope that their latest transfer target can solve those issues.
Chelsea close in on Jeremy Jacquet deal
Arsenal’s interest should say enough about why Chelsea are targeting a big-money move for Jacquet.
The Gunners know their centre-backs, having brought in several successful options over the past few years.
The 20-year-old has been exceptional for Stade Rennais this season and is seen across Europe among the most exciting young defenders.
| Jeremy Jacquet | Ligue 1 2025-26 |
| Appearances | 16 |
| Successful pass % | 91% |
| Tackles | 25 |
| Recoveries | 64 |
| Duels won | 70 |
With long legs, the Frenchman is more than capable of keeping up with most attackers, poking the ball away when given the opportunity.
And on the ball, Jacquet is calm and composed – much like young defenders are taught to be in the developing game.
Fabrizio Romano reported on Sunday that Chelsea have now reached an agreement on personal terms with the Stade Rennais star, who is keen to join.
The Ligue 1 club are asking for around £56million, with the Blues hoping to pay slightly less.
Do Chelsea need Jacquet?
Jacquet is talented, full of potential and highly rated in France. The problem is that, at some stage, the same could be said of Wesley Fofana, Benoit Badiashile and Axel Disasi.
Should Chelsea sign the 20-year-old, they will once again be signing a young centre-back with the hopes that they will hit the ground running in the Premier League.
Jacquet is arguably a better talent than those who came before him, and may well be better suited for the English top flight.
But a young centre-back will always find it difficult without leadership. A few years ago, Thiago Silva offered a guiding presence for his defensive teammates.
Chelsea are yet to replace that profile, and until they do, they run the risk of allowing talent after talent to fizzle out.