Chelsea are intensifying their efforts to secure a late £26 million deal for Nantes defender Tylel Tati, according to reports from French news outlet L'Equipe. This move comes as the Blues face a setback, with Liverpool poised to snatch their key target, Rennes ace Jeremy Jacquet, as per Sky Sports. With the transfer deadline set for 7pm on Monday evening, Chelsea are swiftly pivoting to alternative options to bolster their defensive ranks.
Chelsea Eye FC Nantes Defender Tylel Tati
Tati, an 18-year-old talent, is viewed by Chelsea as a promising addition to strengthen their defensive department. Tipped for a bright future in football, he represents a shrewd long-term investment for the Premier League side. His contract with Nantes in Ligue 1 is set to expire in June 2028, adding urgency to any potential transfer negotiations.
This season, Tati has made 19 appearances in all competitions for Nantes, with 18 of those coming in the league. He began his career at US Roissy-en-Brie, progressing through their academy before joining Nantes in 2023. Since making his debut in August against PSG, he has emerged as one of the club's most prized assets, despite his youth.
A Calming Influence at the Back
Although young, Tati has provided a calming influence in defence for Ahmed Kantari's side in the French top flight this campaign. His potential departure to Chelsea would be a significant blow for Nantes, especially midway through the season. If the deal is completed, he would offer manager Liam Rosenior another defensive option, though it may take time for him to secure a regular spot in the starting XI as he adapts to life in a new country.
Chelsea to Miss Out on Rennes Defender Jeremy Jacquet
Chelsea are set to miss out on Jeremy Jacquet, who appears to be heading to Liverpool instead. The Reds have identified him as a long-term replacement for defenders like Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate. Interestingly, Tati is two years younger than Jacquet and comes at half the price, making him an attractive alternative for Chelsea.
Journalist Gail Davis, via Sky Sports, commented on the situation, stating: "What happened with Jacquet is despite, as we understand, Chelsea offering the same deal as Liverpool did, the player felt his minutes may not be what was desired if he made that big move into the Premier League. He has been linked to Chelsea over the past few weeks, and the club is looking to cover that centre-back position."
Recent Form and Context
Chelsea's pursuit of defensive reinforcements follows a thrilling 3-2 home victory over West Ham over the weekend. The Blues fought back from a 2-0 deficit to win at Stamford Bridge, with goals from Joao Pedro, Marc Cucurella, and Enzo Fernandez. This result underscores the team's resilience but also highlights the need for defensive stability as they aim to compete at the highest levels.
As the transfer deadline approaches, all eyes will be on whether Chelsea can finalise the deal for Tati and how this late move might impact their squad dynamics for the remainder of the season.
