Liverpool Transfer Deadline Drama: £60m Summer Deal Secured as Late Move Falters
Liverpool faced a frantic final day of the January transfer window with the clock ticking down to the 7pm deadline on Monday night. Despite intense speculation and last-minute negotiations, the Reds concluded the month without making a single first-team signing, leaving manager Arne Slot to rely on his existing squad for the remainder of the season.
Major Summer Coup Agreed for French Defender
In a significant development, Liverpool have reportedly agreed a blockbuster deal to sign French defender Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes when the summer transfer window opens. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, the Reds have secured the 20-year-old's signature for a fee of £52 million, with an additional £8.6 million in potential add-ons.
The agreement represents a major coup for Liverpool, who have been tracking the France Under-21 international for some time. Jacquet, who had attracted interest from European giants Chelsea and Bayern Munich, has already agreed personal terms with the Merseyside club. Rennes were unwilling to part with their defensive prospect during the January window but have sanctioned his departure at the season's conclusion.
Geertruida Deal Collapses at the Last Minute
Liverpool's attempts to bolster their squad before the deadline suffered a significant blow as their pursuit of Dutch utility player Lutsharel Geertruida fell through. The Netherlands international, who previously worked under Arne Slot at Feyenoord, had emerged as a late target to strengthen both defence and midfield options.
However, the proposed move collapsed when Sunderland, where Geertruida is currently on loan from RB Leipzig, refused to sanction the transfer. The Black Cats cited insufficient time to secure a replacement before the deadline as the primary reason for blocking the deal. With the transfer window now closed, Geertruida is expected to remain at the Stadium of Light for the remainder of his loan spell.
Other Transfer Rumours and Speculation
As the deadline approached, several other names were linked with moves to Anfield:
- Roland Sallai: The Galatasaray forward was reportedly under consideration as Slot sought to add attacking reinforcements
- Curtis Jones: Inter Milan showed interest in the Liverpool midfielder, though no deal materialised
- Dominik Szoboszlai: Questions emerged about the Hungarian's long-term future at the club
- Andy Robertson: The Scottish left-back was linked with a potential move to Tottenham Hotspur
With the January window now closed, Liverpool's attention will turn to integrating their existing squad and planning for the summer, when Jeremy Jacquet's arrival promises to significantly strengthen their defensive options.
