The January transfer window is in full swing, with Premier League clubs actively shaping their squads for the second half of the season. Daily Mail Sport's Simon Jones brings the latest developments, headlined by Chelsea's aggressive pursuit of a French defensive prodigy and movement on several other fronts across the top flight and beyond.
Chelsea Accelerate Pursuit of Prized Defender
Chelsea have held direct talks with Rennes regarding a move for highly sought-after 20-year-old defender Jeremy Jacquet. The Blues are keen to secure a deal this month, advancing their plans due to concerns that rival suitors—including Liverpool, Arsenal, and Bayern Munich—would be in a stronger position to buy in the summer.
Rennes, however, are driving a hard bargain and are determined to command a record fee for their young star. They are seeking an amount in excess of £50 million, which would surpass the £55 million they received from Manchester City for Jeremy Doku. Jacquet has reportedly indicated his desire to make the switch to Stamford Bridge, but the final decision rests on the clubs agreeing a price.
Striker Sagas: Mateta, Wilson and More
Elsewhere, the striker market is seeing significant activity. Crystal Palace have rebuffed an initial approach from Juventus for forward Jean-Philippe Mateta. The Italian giants, operating on a limited budget, proposed a loan deal with an obligation to buy, but their offer was swiftly turned down by the Selhurst Park hierarchy.
Meanwhile, West Ham's Callum Wilson is expected to hold talks with Saudi Arabian side Al Shabab this week. The 33-year-old England international also retains interest from Everton, who are monitoring the situation closely. In a related development, Burnley have registered an interest in West Ham midfielder James Ward-Prowse.
Other Key Moves Across the Leagues
The transfer ripple effect is being felt throughout the football pyramid. Bournemouth are closing in on a loan deal for Lazio's Greek goalkeeper Christos Mandas, who has also attracted enquiries from West Ham and Wolves.
Newcastle United have been scouting Club Brugge full-back Joaquin Seys, while Wolves are working on a £14 million agreement with Besiktas for defender Emmanuel Agbadou. In the Championship, Sheffield United have joined the race for Brentford's available midfielder Frank Onyeka, with Valencia, Coventry, and Birmingham also asking about him.
Brighton's 22-year-old centre-back Diego Coppola is attracting interest from Spanish sides Valencia and Girona. In a heart-warming move, Wrexham's 36-year-old winger James McClean is returning to his hometown club, Derry City. The Red Dragons are now actively seeking a new striker in the market.
Celtic face competition from Hoffenheim for Shamrock Rovers' 17-year-old forward Michael Noonan, and Watford are hopeful of completing a deal for former Roma midfielder Edoardo Bove.
With the window open for business, clubs are working tirelessly to secure their primary targets, setting the stage for a frantic and potentially record-breaking month of deals.
