Chelsea Unfazed by Missing Out on Jeremy Jacquet

The Blues focused on developing young talent despite losing out on French defender

Feb. 4, 2026 at 3:47am

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Chelsea have no regrets about missing out on the signing of French defender Jeremy Jacquet, who opted to join Liverpool instead. The Blues were reportedly interested in Jacquet but decided to keep young center-backs Josh Acheampong and Mamadou Sarr as part of their plans. Chelsea reportedly matched Liverpool's offer for Jacquet but the 20-year-old chose to move to Anfield.

Why it matters

Chelsea's decision to retain Acheampong and Sarr over pursuing Jacquet signals the club's commitment to developing its own young talent rather than splashing out on high-profile signings. This approach could pay dividends in the long run if the homegrown players can break into the first team.

The details

Despite making it clear they wanted to sign a center-back in January, Chelsea ended up recalling Sarr from his loan at Strasbourg. The Blues also reportedly had Como's Jacobo Ramon and Bournemouth's Marcos Senesi on their shortlist. Chelsea turned down big-money offers for Acheampong in January and have insisted the 19-year-old is part of their plans, though he has seen limited playing time recently.

  • Chelsea were linked with Jacquet throughout the January transfer window.
  • Jacquet ultimately chose to join Liverpool in the summer.

The players

Jeremy Jacquet

A 20-year-old French defender who opted to join Liverpool instead of Chelsea.

Josh Acheampong

A 19-year-old center-back who Chelsea have insisted is part of their plans despite limited playing time this season.

Mamadou Sarr

A center-back who Chelsea recalled from loan at Strasbourg, where he worked with new Chelsea manager Leif Rosenior.

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The takeaway

Chelsea's decision to prioritize developing their own young talent over splashing out on high-profile signings like Jacquet could pay dividends in the long run if players like Acheampong and Sarr can break into the first team and become key contributors.