Chelsea Pursue Ambitious £89.7m Double Transfer for Rennes Duo
Chelsea are reportedly considering a significant double transfer approach for two players from French club Rennes, with a potential combined value of £89.7 million. The Blues are said to be targeting defender Jeremy Jacquet and young striker Mohamed Kader Meïté as manager Liam Rosenior looks to strengthen his squad during this transfer window.
Defensive Priority and Summer Complications
Chelsea's immediate focus appears to be on securing centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, who has emerged as their primary defensive target. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Rennes have firmly rejected Chelsea's initial approach for the defender this month, indicating they would only consider a sale during the summer transfer window. The French club's stance comes despite reported interest from other European giants including Liverpool and Bayern Munich.
The Blues' defensive needs have become more pressing following Levi Colwill's injury absence, leaving the squad without what they consider to be top-level starters in that position. Chelsea's recent victory over Crystal Palace has moved them to within one point of fourth-placed Manchester United, intensifying their need for immediate reinforcements to maintain their Champions League qualification push.
Young Striker Attracts Premier League Attention
Alongside their pursuit of Jacquet, Chelsea have reportedly expressed interest in 18-year-old Rennes forward Mohamed Kader Meïté. The young striker has broken into Rennes' first team this season, making 19 appearances across all competitions and scoring three goals. His emergence has attracted attention from several Premier League clubs, with Manchester United among those monitoring his development.
Chelsea's recruitment strategy under their current regime has focused heavily on identifying and acquiring young, talented players with significant potential for growth. The club has already made an enquiry about Meïté, though the only concrete bid so far has come from Saudi Arabian club Al-Hilal, who have reportedly offered £33.7 million for the player.
Transfer Challenges and Financial Considerations
The combined asking prices for Jacquet and Meïté would amount to approximately £89.7 million, presenting Chelsea with a substantial financial commitment. Rennes' apparent determination to retain their key players during the January window suggests that any deal for either player may need to be postponed until the summer transfer period.
This creates a dilemma for Chelsea, who need immediate impact players to boost their Champions League qualification prospects. While Meïté represents an exciting long-term prospect, his current development stage means he may not provide the immediate first-team contribution Chelsea require for their current campaign objectives.
Manager Liam Rosenior has enjoyed a solid start to his tenure at Stamford Bridge, but the coming weeks will test whether the team's improved form represents sustainable progress or merely a temporary boost from the managerial change. The transfer window's outcome could significantly influence Chelsea's ability to maintain their upward trajectory in the Premier League standings.
