Why do Chelsea want another centre-back?

"Chelsea are still in the market for another centre-back despite having eight on the books. The Blues have their reasons as they attempt to sign 20-year-old Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet - who appears to be their preferred target - despite the French club's reluctance to sell him in the middle of the season. There is, however, a broader question: why sign another central defender at all? Chelsea have spent 222.4m on the position since BlueCo the company owned by Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital bought the club in 2022."

"BBC Sport understands that they want a defender who is exceptional on the ball and able to build attacks from what is described as the central centreback role in Colwill's absence. Chelsea also say they want to add physicality to the squad, with Jacquet standing at 6ft 3ins. They were open to signing such a player in August but when Maresca publicly expressed frustration at the lack of progress following Colwill's injury, the response from senior figures was effectively - tell us which suitable player is available. No such option was put forward."

Chelsea are pursuing Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet as an additional centre-back despite already listing eight players at the position. The club has spent 222.4m on centre-backs since BlueCo bought the club in 2022. Injuries to Levi Colwill and Tosin Adarabioyo, Jorrel Hato's use at left-back, and the desire to sell Axel Disasi influence recruitment needs. The club seeks a ball-playing central centre-back who can build attacks and add physicality, with Jacquet viewed as a target. Previous attempts to sign alternatives, including Dean Huijsen, were unsuccessful, and internal frustrations have complicated negotiations.

Read at www.bbc.com