Liverpool Football Club have successfully concluded a significant transfer coup, securing the services of highly-rated French defender Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes for an initial fee of £55 million. The deal represents a strategic victory for the Merseyside club, who managed to outbid and outmanoeuvre Premier League rivals Chelsea for the coveted 20-year-old's signature.
Summer Business Concluded Early
The Anfield outfit have moved swiftly to tie up their first piece of summer transfer business well in advance, with Jacquet scheduled to officially complete his move on 1 July. This proactive approach underscores Liverpool's intent to strengthen their squad ahead of the new season, despite facing constraints during the January window.
Contract Details and Financial Implications
Jeremy Jacquet is set to sign a substantial five-year contract with Liverpool, which includes an option to extend for an additional season, potentially keeping him at the club until 2032. The total value of the transfer could rise to £60 million, contingent upon various performance-related add-ons being met.
This acquisition pushes Liverpool's total expenditure since the opening of last summer's transfer window beyond the £500 million mark. This significant outlay highlights the club's ambitious investment in player recruitment, even though they were unable to reinforce their injury-depleted squad during the recent January transfer period.
Addressing Defensive Requirements
Liverpool had been actively seeking reinforcements at right-back to provide cover for the injured Conor Bradley and Jeremie Frimpong. Their initial target, Lutsharel Geertruida, proved unattainable due to complications involving his loan arrangement at Sunderland from RB Leipzig.
Sporting director Richard Hughes subsequently pivoted to negotiate the successful deal for Jacquet, who had attracted considerable attention from several of Europe's elite clubs. Chelsea had been particularly keen on securing the young Frenchman's services, making Liverpool's successful pursuit all the more noteworthy.
Shaping Liverpool's Defensive Future
Jacquet's arrival continues Liverpool's strategic reshaping of their defensive line for the coming years. This follows last summer's purchase of 19-year-old Italian defender Giovanni Leoni, indicating a clear policy of investing in young, promising defensive talent.
However, the transfer occurs against a backdrop of uncertainty regarding several established defenders. Club captain Virgil van Dijk is entering the final year of his current contract, while Ibrahima Konate faces the possibility of departing as a free agent when his contract expires this summer, potentially leaving as early as the end of June.
Liverpool's defensive recruitment efforts faced another setback in 2025 when a proposed move for England international Marc Guehi collapsed on transfer deadline day. Guehi subsequently joined Manchester City in January, highlighting the competitive nature of the defender market among top Premier League clubs.
