Liverpool have officially reached an agreement to sign Jeremy Jacquet from Stade Rennais, winning a highly competitive transfer race that also involved Chelsea. The highly rated French center-back is expected to complete his move to Anfield ahead of the 2026/2027 season, marking another significant investment in Liverpool’s long-term defensive future.
Although the transfer is still subject to work permit clearance and international approval, both clubs have confirmed that a deal is already in place. Jacquet will remain with Rennes until the end of the current Ligue 1 campaign before making the switch to Merseyside on a long-term contract.
Liverpool Confirm Agreement with Rennes
In an official statement, Liverpool confirmed that they have reached a full agreement with Rennes for the transfer of the 20-year-old defender. The move is scheduled to be finalized during the upcoming summer transfer window, allowing Jacquet to complete the season in France before relocating to England.
According to reports from talkSPORT, the deal is worth £55 million, with an additional £5 million in performance-related bonuses potentially included. The structure of the transfer underlines Liverpool’s confidence in Jacquet’s development and long-term potential.
A Rising Defensive Prospect
Jeremy Jacquet has rapidly emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in French football. Since making his senior debut in January 2024, he has accumulated 31 appearances for Rennes across all competitions, showing maturity well beyond his years.
During the current Ligue 1 season, Jacquet has featured in 18 top-flight matches, becoming a regular presence in Rennes’ defensive line. His composure on the ball, physical strength, and ability to read the game have earned him widespread praise from scouts and analysts alike.
International Pedigree and Tournament Success
Jacquet’s rise has not been limited to club football. He has already earned five caps for France’s U21 national team, further underlining his status as a defender for the future.
In 2024, Jacquet played a key role in helping France reach the UEFA European Under-19 Championship final. His commanding performances throughout the tournament saw him named in the Team of the Tournament, a recognition that significantly boosted his reputation across Europe.
Earlier in his career, Jacquet also gained valuable experience during a loan spell at Clermont Foot, where he adapted to the physical demands of Ligue 1 and refined his defensive instincts.
Liverpool Beat Chelsea in Transfer Race
Liverpool’s pursuit of Jacquet was far from straightforward. Chelsea were heavily linked with the French defender and had reportedly explored the possibility of integrating him into their first team immediately.
However, Rennes were firm in their stance that Jacquet should remain at the club until the end of the season. This condition ultimately played in Liverpool’s favor, as the Reds were willing to allow the player to continue his development in Ligue 1 before making the transition to the Premier League.
Chelsea’s desire for an immediate move contrasted with Liverpool’s long-term approach, giving the Anfield club the decisive edge in negotiations.
Strategic Planning for the Future
Liverpool’s interest in Jacquet is closely tied to their long-term defensive planning. The Frenchman is widely viewed as a potential successor to Ibrahima Konaté, whose contract situation remains unresolved.
With Konaté’s deal set to expire at the end of the season and his future still uncertain, Liverpool are proactively securing options to maintain defensive stability. Jacquet’s profile—strong, composed, and tactically intelligent—fits perfectly into Liverpool’s recruitment model.
The club’s data-driven approach once again appears central to this signing, focusing on players with high ceilings rather than short-term fixes.
Medical Completed, Focus Remains on Rennes
Jacquet has already completed his medical examinations earlier this week before returning to France to finish the season with Rennes. The defender remains fully focused on helping his current club achieve their objectives.
Rennes currently sit sixth in the Ligue 1 standings, firmly in contention for European qualification and still competing in the Coupe de France. Jacquet is expected to play a crucial role as Rennes push for a strong finish to the campaign.
A Calculated Investment by Liverpool
For Liverpool, the acquisition of Jeremy Jacquet represents more than just another signing. It reflects a broader strategy of building a sustainable squad capable of competing at the highest level for years to come.
Allowing Jacquet to complete the season in France should ease his transition and ensure he arrives at Anfield fully prepared for the physical and tactical demands of English football.
As the Reds continue to refresh their squad with elite young talent, Jacquet’s arrival could prove to be a defining move in shaping Liverpool’s defensive future.
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