Liverpool Enter Deadline Day Talks for Chelsea Target Jeremy Jacquet
Liverpool Football Club are facing a race against time to conclude their January transfer business, with the window set to slam shut on Monday night. The Reds have been actively exploring options to bolster their squad, particularly in defence, amid a backdrop of injury concerns and swirling exit rumours involving current players.
Defensive Pursuit: Jacquet in Focus Amid Firm Stance
One of the most prominent names linked with a move to Anfield is Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool have joined London rivals Chelsea in expressing a concrete interest in the player and are currently holding talks with the French Ligue 1 club.
However, any potential agreement faces a significant hurdle. Rennes have adopted a clear and resolute exit stance, firmly indicating that a winter departure for Jacquet is off the table. Consequently, even if negotiations prove successful, the defender would not be eligible to join Liverpool until the summer transfer window at the very earliest.
Previous speculation had also connected Bundesliga giants Bayern Munich with a move for Jacquet, but recent reports suggest a switch to Germany now appears unlikely at this advanced stage of the window.
Midfield Stability: Endo Deemed "Unattainable"
While potential arrivals are being discussed, Liverpool are also working to retain key personnel. Midfielder Wataru Endo has reportedly attracted interest from Dutch side Ajax ahead of the deadline. Despite this, a move is considered highly improbable.
Reports from Voetbal Primeur state that Ajax view Endo as "unattainable" during this January window and have seemingly abandoned their pursuit. The Eredivisie club have identified alternative targets, including Manchester United's Manuel Ugarte and Arsenal's Christian Norgaard, but none are expected to change clubs before Monday's cutoff.
Injury Concerns and Exit Speculation Loom
Liverpool's need for defensive reinforcements is underscored by current injury absences. Players such as Jeremie Frimpong, Conor Bradley, Joe Gomez, and Giovanni Leoni are all sidelined, putting pressure on the squad's depth.
Simultaneously, the club is contending with intense speculation surrounding potential departures. Left-back Andy Robertson has been the subject of interest from Tottenham Hotspur this month, while midfielder Curtis Jones has been linked with a loan move to Inter Milan that includes an option to buy.
As the clock ticks down to Monday's deadline, Liverpool's recruitment team faces a complex balancing act: securing necessary additions while managing exit rumours and maintaining squad stability for the remainder of the season.
