Chelsea appear to be closing in on the signing of Yael Thebault, the French centre‑back currently with Stade Rennais. A product of Rennes’ academy, the 18‑year‑old defender signed his first professional contract extending until 2028, highlighting the clubandrsquo;s long‑term faith in his potential – even as he recovers from a knee ligament injury.

​Chelsea appear to be closing in on the signing of Yael Thebault, the French centre‑back currently with Stade Rennais. A product of Rennes’ academy, the 18‑year‑old defender signed his first professional contract extending until 2028, highlighting the clubandrsquo;s long‑term faith in his potential – even as he recovers from a knee ligament injury.