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Evening Standard
Evening Standard
Sport
Sam Tabuteau

Chelsea launch new defender move as Jeremy Jacquet talks rumble on ahead of January deadline

Chelsea are considering recalling Mamadou Sarr from his loan spell at Strasbourg.

Standard Sport understands discussions are ongoing between all parties, with Sarr yet to decide whether he wants to return to Chelsea mid-season.

LIVE BLOG: All the latest January transfer news and rumours

The Blues are currently assessing their centre-back options, and recently recalled Aaron Anselmino from his loan at Borussia Dortmund. They also remain in talks with Rennes over signing Jeremy Jacquet.

Anselmino could now head to Strasbourg to allow Sarr to become part of the Chelsea first-team squad for the first time.

Sarr joined Chelsea from Strasbourg in a £12million deal in June before rejoining the Ligue 1 side on loan this season, where he continued to work under Liam Rosenior.

Aaron Anselmino saw his loan spell at Dormund cut short this month (Getty Images)

The 20-year-old had been expected to officially join up with Chelsea in the summer ahead of being integrated into the first team ahead of the 2026/27 season

However, with Rosenior now at Chelsea and keen to bolster his defensive options, Sarr could now join up with the Blues six months earlier than planned.

Senegal star Sarr last weekend returned to Strasbourg as an Africa Cup of Nations winner, and captained his team to a 4-1 over Lille.

Speaking about his future in December, Sarr said he was focused on helping Strasbourg this season, but his plan was to play for Chelsea next year.

“Absolutely (I want to play for Chelsea next season),” he said. “I want to make a good season with Strasbourg, then join the Chelsea group in June.

“Strasbourg is a good place to progress because there are only young players. The environment is made only for us. I think it is the best place to develop.”

Sarr, who signed an eight-year deal at Chelsea, made his debut for the club against ES Tunis as the Blues went on to lift the Club World Cup in the United States last summer.

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