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chelsea Preparations are now being made for a late move for a ‘physical’ Jeremy Jacquet alternative and talks have already been held.
Blues keen to sign new centre-back before transfer deadline
The Blues have set out to bring in a new centre-back ahead of the February 2 transfer deadline and Jacquet has emerged as one of their main targets, but a deal may not materialize until the summer transfer window.
With Aaron Anselmino recalled from his loan spell at Borussia Dortmund, the Blues now have plenty of options at centre-back, so they may not need to bring in another option before the January transfer window closes.
However, with Liam Rogniel reaching the last 16 of the Champions League, it might make sense to sign a more experienced defender this month given the youth of both Josh Achimpom and Anselmino.
According to Spanish reports, Chelsea are now preparing to sign Real Betis defender Natan This month, a €40m (£35m) bid is underway and they have held “preliminary” talks with the Spanish club over a deal.
During these talks, Betis have made it clear that they will only let the defender leave for an appropriate fee, and their most recent asking price was €45m (£39m), so the two clubs may have slightly different valuations.
There is also likely to be fierce competition for the Betis star’s signature, with Arsenal, Real Madrid and Newcastle United named as potential suitors.
‘Stamina’ Natan could be a solid replacement for Jacquet
Central defender described by scouts as “physical” Ben MartinsonThe Brazilian is more experienced than Jacquet, considering he is already 24 years old, and he has been a key player for Betis in La Liga this season, missing just one game.
The former Napoli man averages 7.4 clearances per game in La Liga, more than any other player in Betis’s squad, while his 1.2 interceptions average puts him third, demonstrating his defensive attributes.
That said, with Anselmino recalled from Borussia Dortmund, there’s arguably no pressing need to bring in another centre-back before the upcoming deadline, and pursuing Jacquet at the end of the season might be a better idea.
The Rennes star is much younger than Natan, only 20 years old, but he is already an important player for the Ligue 1 team and has been well received by reporters. i think boksakwho said: “He is quick, has great athleticism and long legs, which allows him to defend in all forms. Whether it is a key interception, a decisive block or a last-ditch sliding tackle.”
