Liverpool now ahead of Chelsea in race for Ligue 1 star | OneFootball

Liverpool Move Quickly for Jérémy Jacquet as Transfer Race Heats Up

Liverpool have surged into pole position for one of European football’s most coveted young defenders, with FootMercato reporting that the Reds are now leading the race for Stade Rennais centre back Jérémy Jacquet. What had appeared to be a Chelsea led pursuit has shifted rapidly, with Liverpool’s intent and timing reshaping the final days of the winter window.

Jacquet, just 20 years old, has enjoyed a breakout season in Ligue 1, establishing himself as a defensive cornerstone for Rennes. His blend of physical authority, composure in possession, and tactical awareness has attracted elite level interest, prompting what FootMercato describe as an increasingly heated transfer saga.

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Rennes Defender Drawing Elite Attention

Chelsea had previously moved decisively, lodging an offer of at least €50 million and securing an agreement with the player. Their plan involved loaning Jacquet back to Rennes until the end of the season, a structure designed to ease negotiations with a club reluctant to sell mid campaign. Rennes, however, are keenly aware of the financial implications at play, with the possibility of a record breaking sale.

FootMercato note that Rennes could consider a €70 million deal, eclipsing the €60 million received for Jérémy Doku’s move to Manchester City. Internally, the player’s value is unquestioned. Habib Beye underlined this stance, stating, “Today, Jérémy is a very important player for our objectives, and if we were to let him go, we would have to lower our expectations. (…) But for me, it’s a non-issue right now.”

Liverpool Enter Race with Intent

The situation changed markedly on Sunday evening. FootMercato report that Liverpool have now entered the race in earnest, quickly positioning themselves as serious rivals to Chelsea. Crucially, Liverpool’s interest is framed around immediate integration rather than future planning alone, with Jacquet viewed as a player capable of contributing straight away under Arne Slot.

According to the report, Liverpool are not content to monitor events from afar. Instead, they are preparing a swift and significant move to secure the defender before Chelsea can regain control of talks. With strong financial backing and the promise of a major role, Liverpool’s proposal could prove decisive.

Final Hours Set to Define Outcome

Rennes now find themselves in a powerful negotiating position, balancing squad stability against a potentially historic fee. As FootMercato outline, the final hours of the window are critical, with Jacquet’s future likely to be decided imminently. Liverpool’s assertiveness has changed the dynamic, and the next move may determine whether Rennes cash in or resist until summer.

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From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report feels both exciting and familiar. The club stepping decisively into a competitive market for a high ceiling defender fits the recent recruitment trend, young, elite potential, and ready to contribute. Jacquet’s profile ticks many boxes, especially with defensive evolution clearly on the agenda under Arne Slot.

There will naturally be questions about price. A €70 million fee is significant, particularly for a player with one standout season at top level. Yet context matters. Liverpool have often paid premiums for defenders who combine physical reliability with technical quality, and Jacquet appears to offer both. If the coaching staff believe he can slot into the system quickly, the investment starts to make sense.

What stands out most is the urgency. Liverpool rarely rush publicly in January, so FootMercato’s claim that the club are planning a “significant and swift offensive” suggests genuine conviction. Fans will welcome that clarity, especially after previous windows where opportunities felt missed rather than seized.

Ultimately, this feels like a statement move. Beating Chelsea to a top defensive prospect would reinforce Liverpool’s pulling power and intent. Whether Rennes accept now or hold firm, the fact Liverpool are leading the conversation speaks volumes about their confidence in Jacquet’s potential and their broader defensive strategy.