Chelsea are on the hunt for a new central defender to lead their backline. This ought to have been a top priority after Antonio Rudiger left for a free to Real Madrid in 2022, and it was a need only exacerbated when Thiago Silva returned to Fluminense two years later. Yet it is a priority they have continued to neglect until now, as the man who they want to fill that void at the back is Jeremy Jacquet.

Chelsea have taken a major step forward in their bid to sign Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes, having agreed personal terms with the defender. Jacquet is reportedly close to joining the Blues, who are looking to bring in a new centre-back during the January transfer window. The 20-year-old has also been linked with Liverpool, but Chelsea are now in pole position to secure his signature.

Chelsea are reportedly ready to back new head coach Liam Rosenior by making up to three signings in the January transfer window. The Blues are looking to strengthen in a number of areas in a major show of support for their manager, who replaced Enzo Maresca in the Stamford Bridge dugout earlier this month following the Italian’s departure on New Year’s Day.

Arsenal have been rejected by Stade Rennais defender Jeremy Jacquet, according to a new report in France.