Just like that, January is coming to an end. Chelsea have not gotten any significant business done in terms of strengthening Liam Rosenior's squad, something that was needed if they want to finish in a Champions League qualification spot and make a deep run in this season's competition, after securing a top 8 finish.
The one position where Chelsea need to strengthen urgently is centre-back. Fortunately, it looks like they could still get some business done there, if things play out their way. Of course, Jeremy Jacquet has been their top target in that position this winter.
As reported by Kaveh Solhekol of Sky Sports, Jacquet only wants to sign for Chelsea. Personal terms have been fully agreed. Both clubs are playing on Saturday evening. Expect developments after the games.
To be fair, personal terms have never looked like a problem. But the two clubs have failed to reach an agreement over the structure of a deal, which has prevented it from happening.
Sky Sports man drops exciting Jeremy Jacquet to Chelsea news
Jacquet is one of the most highly rated young centre-backs in football right now. The problem with signing youngsters, though is that you never know how they will adjust and develop moving forward. Chelsea have signed plenty of top talents under this new ownership, only for them to struggle to justify their price tags.
Looking deeper into the numbers, there are two standout aspects of Jeremy's game which could help Chelsea. According to Datamb, he is in the 94th percentile when it comes to percentage of aerial duels won and 84th percentile in percentage of forward pass completion.
That would be helpful to Chelsea in defending aerial balls into the box and building from the back. Of course, one has to wonder whether Jacquet's numbers would translate in the more physical and fast Premier League.