Chelsea prepare €50m bid for Rennes defender Jérémy Jacquet

Chelsea are preparing a major January move for Stade Rennais centre-back Jérémy Jacquet, but any deal is expected to require a significant increase on their initial valuation.

According to RMC Sport, the Blues have emerged as the frontrunners to sign the 20-year-old this winter, with early discussions already under way between the two clubs. Chelsea are understood to be readying an opening bid worth around €50m, though Rennes are holding out for a figure closer to €60m.

RMC Sport report that Chelsea are “making a strong push” to bring Jacquet to Stamford Bridge, having identified the France Under-21 international as a priority defensive target. While several European clubs are monitoring the situation, Chelsea are currently the only side named as being in concrete talks.

Jacquet is a product of Stade Rennais’ youth system and has rapidly established himself at senior level. After spending last season on loan at Clermont Foot 63 in Ligue 2, he returned to Rennes in the summer and has started 16 Ligue 1 matches this campaign.

His development has not gone unnoticed. Rennes believe the defender’s age, consistency and ceiling justify their valuation, even if it stretches beyond Chelsea’s current comfort zone.

Chelsea have not yet submitted a formal offer, but have signalled their willingness to open negotiations at €50m. That figure is unlikely to be enough on its own. Rennes are said to be seeking more than €60m, creating a gap of roughly €10m that may determine whether talks progress or stall.

There is, as yet, no indication that Chelsea are prepared to meet Rennes’ asking price in full. The club’s recruitment team are weighing whether to push further or pivot to alternative options.

Jacquet’s rise has already reshaped his market. Arsenal explored a move for the defender last summer, but the player opted to stay in France, a decision that has been vindicated by his regular role this season.

Journalist Fabrice Hawkins reinforced RMC’s report on social media, stating that Jacquet is Chelsea’s top defensive target for January. However, he also noted that the Blues are assessing multiple centre-back options and will move on if progress proves difficult.

Chelsea are expected to decide in the coming days whether to formally test Rennes’ resolve with an opening bid or reassess their shortlist. If negotiations stall over valuation, attention could quickly turn to other defensive options before the window progresses further.

Should Chelsea stretch their budget to secure Jacquet now, or is walking away the smarter January play?