Jérémy Jacquet has turned down a summer move to Arsenal, despite the Premier League club’s interest in securing the France U21 international from Stade Rennais.
That’s according to Foot Mercato, who report that Arsenal made an approach for the 20-year-old shortly after his loan spell at Clermont Foot concluded. However, Jacquet is said to have rejected the proposal, opting to continue his development in Ligue 1 instead.
Arsenal Move Rebuffed – But Why?
No formal reason has been given for Jacquet’s decision, but the timing is clear: the approach was made in late May, just after Jacquet returned from a successful six-month loan at Clermont, where he featured 18 times, scoring twice and assisting once in Ligue 2.
The Gunners were looking to add another young defender after landing Cristhian Mosquera from Valencia, and Jacquet was high on the list due to his left-footed profile, height (1.91m), and growing reputation in France.
“Jacquet’s new contract runs until 2029 — Rennes acted swiftly to shut down further Premier League interest.” — Foot Mercato
Rennes Respond by Locking Down Jacquet
Following Arsenal’s early move in January, Rennes acted quickly, handing Jacquet a new deal in may until 2029, confirming their belief that he is a future first-team regular. He’s already made 12 senior appearances since being promoted in early 2024 and is expected to feature more prominently under new manager Julien Stéphan this season.
Player Profile – Jérémy Jacquet (2024/25)
| Club | Apps | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stade Rennais (First Team) | 12 | 0 | 0 |
| Clermont Foot 63 (loan) | 18 | 2 | 1 |
Analyst Verdict: Smart by Jacquet — and Smart by Rennes
From Arsenal’s side, the move made sense — Jacquet fits their profile of young, technical defenders with resale value. But the player’s decision to stay put, develop, and secure regular Ligue 1 minutes may prove just as smart.
For Rennes, tying Jacquet down protects their long-term asset and fends off renewed interest from abroad — not just from Arsenal, but potentially from Bundesliga and Serie A clubs tracking his progress.
Key Insights
- Jacquet turned down Arsenal’s approach in late May 2025.
- Rennes responded by handing him a new deal until 2029.
- France U21 defender impressed during loan at Clermont (2 goals, 1 assist).
- Arsenal are unlikely to return after signing Mosquera from Valencia.
- Jacquet values development over a Premier League bench role.
What’s Next?
Jacquet has made his decision — and Rennes are backing him. With a long-term deal in place and senior minutes up for grabs, the 20-year-old now faces a crucial development season in Ligue 1.
Did Arsenal miss out — or is Jacquet right to stay where he’ll play?
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