Arsenal are reportedly leading the race to sign Stade Rennais whizkid Jeremy Jacquet amid his links with Aston Villa and Newcastle United.

Arsenal are positioning themselves at the front of the queue to land Jeremy Jacquet, with Mikel Arteta’s side making early moves to secure the signature of the rising French centre-back. The Gunners are among a growing list of clubs across England and Europe tracking the 20-year-old Rennes starlet after a breakthrough Ligue 1 season.

Jacquet broke through at Stade Rennais last term, earning plaudits for his composure, intelligence, and physicality in defence. Though he recently committed to a long-term deal keeping him at Rennes until June 2029, interest from top clubs is accelerating, and Arsenal appear determined to lead the charge.

Arsenal lay the groundwork for summer swoop

Caught Offside confirm that Arsenal have already made contact with Jacquet’s camp, taking proactive steps ahead of what could become a competitive bidding war. With future squad planning in mind, the North London club view the youngster as a player who could be seamlessly moulded under Arteta’s philosophy.

Given potential summer exits for defenders like Oleksandr Zinchenko or Jakub Kiwior, Arsenal are seeking young, adaptable options to strengthen their defensive line. Jacquet fits the bill, with his ball-playing ability, aerial strength, and willingness to operate under pressure standing out as key traits.

Arteta’s recent success with youth development and the club’s Champions League project add further appeal, placing Arsenal in a strong position to convince Jacquet to join the Emirates revolution.

Competition is fierce for one of France’s brightest prospect

Arsenal, however, are far from alone in this pursuit. Aston Villa and Newcastle United have both shown serious intent, each eyeing Jeremy Jacquet through different tactical lenses.

Aston Villa are looking to refresh their backline with long-term options as Unai Emery prepares for another season in Europe. Newcastle United continue to target high-upside, emerging talent to reinforce their squad depth and build for the future.

Elsewhere, Brighton & Hove Albion, known for unearthing and developing gems, have kept close tabs on Jacquet, while Brentford are exploring a move as part of their value-driven recruitment strategy.

The 20-year-old’s potential has not gone unnoticed on the continent either. Bundesliga outfits RB Leipzig and Bayer Leverkusen are believed to be monitoring his progress, with both clubs having a track record of developing young defensive talents. From Italy, Atalanta and Torino have also expressed early interest.

Despite Rennes’s firm stance that Jacquet is not for sale this summer, insiders suggest the French club could come under increasing pressure as offers materialise and player interest rises.

Arsenal’s early contact signals a clear intent: they want to outmanoeuvre their rivals and tie down a potential defensive cornerstone before his price skyrockets. For Jacquet, the chance to learn under Mikel Arteta in a Champions League environment could prove decisive. If Rennes’ resolve is tested and Jacquet is made available, expect Arsenal to be front and centre in the race for one of France’s brightest young defenders.