Jeremy Jacquet
Liverpool have reached an agreement with French Ligue 1 side Rennes for the signing of highly rated defender Jeremy Jacquet in a deal worth up to £60 million, though the centre-back will only complete his move to Anfield in the summer.
The Reds have settled on an initial £55m fee, with a further £5m tied to performance-related add-ons. The transfer is subject to a medical, but there are no concerns over personal terms, with the France Under-21 international expected to commit to the move without complications.
Jacquet, 20, had attracted interest from several top European clubs after an impressive campaign in Ligue 1. Chelsea are understood to have held discussions with the player during the January transfer window, but sources indicate the London club are unwilling to match Liverpool’s financial package.
Liverpool’s pursuit of the Rennes academy graduate comes as the club looks to strengthen its defensive unit ahead of next season. Uncertainty surrounds the future of Ibrahima Konaté, whose contract expires at the end of the current campaign, prompting Arne Slot’s side to plan proactively.
The Merseyside giants had previously missed out on Crystal Palace defender Marc Guéhi last summer, with the England international later joining Manchester City in January.
Jacquet has made 18 appearances for Rennes this season and has delivered a series of commanding performances that have underlined his potential. Liverpool view the young centre-half as a long-term investment and a key part of their future defensive rebuild.