Chelsea are actively pursuing a major defensive reinforcement in the January transfer window, with France Under-21 international Jeremy Jacquet emerging as their primary target. The Blues are preparing a substantial offer for the Rennes star as they seek to address a crisis at the back.
Chelsea's Defensive Crisis Sparks £43m Move
The urgency for a new centre-back stems from the long-term absence of Levi Colwill. The England international suffered a serious knee injury before the season began, leaving a significant void. Chelsea's decision not to sign experienced cover last summer has proven costly, with Tosin Adarabioyo, Benoit Badiashile, and Wesley Fofana all struggling for consistent form and fitness.
According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Chelsea have compiled a three-man shortlist to equip new manager Liam Rosenior with the squad depth needed for a Champions League qualification push. The club have held direct talks with Rennes within the last 24 hours and are ready to submit a bid worth £43 million for the 20-year-old Jacquet, who has made 16 Ligue 1 appearances this term.
While Chelsea are in pole position, they may face late competition from Bayern Munich, who missed out on Marc Guehi to Manchester City. The Blues had previously failed to sign Dean Huijsen in the summer, who opted for Real Madrid instead.
Attack Also a Priority Amid Palmer Fitness Concerns
Meanwhile, Chelsea are also considering a move for an attacking player before the window closes, due to ongoing concerns over the fitness of star man Cole Palmer. Palmer, along with Reece James, missed the 3-2 Carabao Cup semi-final first leg defeat to Arsenal on Wednesday – Rosenior's first loss as boss.
Both players trained on Thursday and could feature against Brentford, but the club is exploring options for additional cover. The future of academy graduate Tyrique George remains uncertain after a proposed move to Fulham collapsed on deadline day. When questioned, Rosenior admitted he was unsure of the 19-year-old's immediate future, stating a departure requires "the right offer" and must be "right for the player."
Goalkeeper Dilemma and Rosenior's Selection Policy
The defeat to Arsenal also highlighted issues in goal, where Robert Sanchez made two costly errors. Despite former boss Enzo Maresca consistently backing the Spaniard, Rosenior has refused to confirm Sanchez as his undisputed number one.
"It’s the same for every position," Rosenior said. "I’m here to assess every position. I don’t have number ones and number twos... You have to earn your spot in this team." This stance complicates a potential move for backup goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen, who is wanted by West Ham. Chelsea are currently reluctant to let him leave mid-season, as it would remove competition for Sanchez, though the situation could change.
As the January window enters its final phase, Chelsea's activity in both defence and attack will be crucial for Rosenior's ambitions in the second half of the season.
