Chelsea in talks for Rennes defender Jacquet

During the winter transfer window, Chelsea has been in talks with Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet.

The Blues are currently being quoted more than £60 million to complete a deal this month despite having spoken with both Rennes and the 20-year-old’s agent regarding a move.

Although it is known that the France Under-21 international is interested in the move, BBC Sport is aware of rival interest.

The talks come after Stamford Bridge’s internal decision to move forward with signing a center-back by six months rather than the summer.

Other options will also be taken into account. Marcos Senesi and Como defender Jacabo Ramon are reportedly in the spotlight, both of whom are also attracting Real Madrid’s attention.

Senesi’s contract expires at the end of the season, and the south-coast club has not yet received any formal correspondence from Chelsea.

Prior to last summer’s transfer window, Chelsea had considered signing a centre-back for former Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, but Real Madrid’s main target Dean Huijsen made the move.

One of Maresca’s early frustrations, which ultimately resulted in his mid-season departure, was assessed, but Chelsea did not believe they could find a suitable alternative.

After Levi Colwill suffered a serious knee injury in the pre-season, the team felt the need to sign a ball-playing center-back. However, his recovery is progressing well and he has faith that he will play in the offseason. He continues to be a key component of Chelsea’s long-term goals.