Chelsea are on the hunt for a new central defender to lead their backline. This ought to have been a top priority after Antonio Rudiger left for a free to Real Madrid in 2022, and it was a need only exacerbated when Thiago Silva returned to Fluminense two years later.

As the January transfer window nears its conclusion, Chelsea are ramping up their efforts to land Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, despite the Ligue 1 club holding firm on a £60m price tag. The 18-year-old centre-back has impressed in Ligue 1 and already made his senior debut for France.

Venezuelan winger Keiber Lamadrid is finalising a move to West Ham, writes Sam Tabuteau. The 22-year-old began his medical on Tuesday night ahead of a joining on a loan move until the end of the season. Standard Sport understands the Hammers will hold an option to make the move permanent.

French club Rennes already named their price for young centre-back Jeremy Jacquet amid interest from Chelsea, according to reports. As reported by The Telegraph

CHELSEA have reportedly taken a major step in their pursuit of Jeremy Jacquet. It is claimed the Blues have agreed personal terms with the Rennes defender with the clubs yet to green light a fee.

Chelsea are reportedly willing to try a different tactic to help secure the signing of Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet ahead of their rivals.

Rennes have turned down Chelsea's initial offer for young centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, according to reports in France.