Chelsea target Rennes’ Jérémy Jacquet as a priority signing this winter

Chelsea FC have identified Rennes and France U21 international centre-back Jérémy Jacquet (20) as a priority target this winter transfer window, according to RMC Sport’s Fabrice Hawkins. Jacquet is the latest gem to come out of the Rennes Academy famous production line. The 20-year-old is viewed as a potential senior France international in his position. Despite his young age, Jacquet is an undisputed starter in Habib Beye’s three-man defense.

A handful of major European clubs – the likes of Real Madrid, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich – are monitoring Jacquet’s development in Brittany. Rennes want to keep hold of Jacquet until the summer, but Chelsea’s interest in bringing him to Stamford Bridge may change their stance.

RMC Sport reports that initial club-to-club talks betweeen Chelsea and Rennes are about Jacquet’s valuation. The Blues are reportedly ready to submit a €50m bid whereas the Bretons are intend to “break the bank” with what could be a club-record sale, given Jacquet’s profile and the timing of the transfer.