French defender keen on Chelsea switch despite interest from Liverpool and Bayern

Chelsea have surged ahead in the race to sign highly rated Stade Rennais centre-back Jérémy Jacquet, with Sky Sports’ Kaveh Solhekol reporting that the 20-year-old is firmly set on a move to Stamford Bridge despite strong interest from across Europe.

Discussions between Chelsea and Rennes are progressing as the Premier League side push to secure one of Ligue 1’s most promising young defenders. Jacquet has established himself in Rennes’ senior squad over the past year, earning praise for his composure on the ball and physical presence, with comparisons drawn to French internationals Ibrahima Konaté and William Saliba.

Chelsea’s long-term vision, centred on developing elite young talent, is understood to be a major factor in Jacquet’s decision. The club’s recent investment in defensive prospects such as Levi Colwill, Malo Gusto and Aaron Anselmino has reinforced the appeal, offering a clear pathway for young centre-backs to progress and compete at the highest level.

While Jacquet has made Chelsea his priority, Rennes are reluctant to lose the defender mid-season and would prefer him to remain until the summer. However, a January transfer has not been ruled out, particularly if an agreement can be reached that sees Jacquet loaned back to the Ligue 1 side until the end of the campaign.

Chelsea do face competition, with Bayern Munich and Liverpool among the clubs tracking his development, but the Blues are currently leading the negotiations and hold a key advantage as Jacquet’s preferred destination. Rennes are expected to demand a significant fee for the academy graduate, who is tied to a long-term contract, yet Chelsea remain confident of reaching an agreement as they continue their strategy of securing top young talent early.