Chelsea have begun talks to sign Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet in the January transfer window, according to sources. The Blues are reportedly being quoted over £60m for the 20-year-old France Under-21 international, although rival interest is believed to be substantial.
The move comes as Chelsea look to strengthen their defence, particularly with Levi Colwill still recovering from a serious knee injury sustained in pre-season. However, the club's long-term plans remain centred around Colwill, who will feature later in the campaign.
Chelsea have spoken to both Rennes and Jacquet's agent, although no deal has been agreed. The Blues are also exploring other options, including Como defender Jacabo Ramon, who is attracting attention from Real Madrid.
Bournemouth's Marcos Senesi is another target for Chelsea, despite his contract expiring at the end of the season. Senesi is also a Juventus target, however, and the south-coast club have yet to receive any formal contact from the Blues.
This move marks an early attempt by Chelsea to address their defensive needs ahead of the new season. The Blues had previously explored signing a centre-back in the summer, but ultimately failed to secure a deal for key target Dean Huijsen, who joined Real Madrid instead.
The move comes as Chelsea look to strengthen their defence, particularly with Levi Colwill still recovering from a serious knee injury sustained in pre-season. However, the club's long-term plans remain centred around Colwill, who will feature later in the campaign.
Chelsea have spoken to both Rennes and Jacquet's agent, although no deal has been agreed. The Blues are also exploring other options, including Como defender Jacabo Ramon, who is attracting attention from Real Madrid.
Bournemouth's Marcos Senesi is another target for Chelsea, despite his contract expiring at the end of the season. Senesi is also a Juventus target, however, and the south-coast club have yet to receive any formal contact from the Blues.
This move marks an early attempt by Chelsea to address their defensive needs ahead of the new season. The Blues had previously explored signing a centre-back in the summer, but ultimately failed to secure a deal for key target Dean Huijsen, who joined Real Madrid instead.