Liverpool ahead of Chelsea and closing in on £60m deal for Ligue 1 star | OneFootball

Liverpool Reach Agreement for Jeremy Jacquet as Chelsea Step Back from Record Deal

Liverpool have taken a significant step in the January transfer market by reaching a verbal agreement with Rennes for highly rated defender Jeremy Jacquet, in a deal that could rise to £60 million including add-ons. The move places the Reds firmly ahead of Chelsea in the race for the France Under-21 international and underlines their long-term defensive planning under Arne Slot.

According to talkSPORT, Liverpool have agreed a £55 million fee with a further £5 million in performance-related bonuses, with Jacquet expected to undergo his medical before completing a summer move to Anfield. While the player will remain in Ligue 1 until the end of the season, the agreement represents a major statement of intent.

Liverpool Move Accelerates After Rennes Talks

Liverpool’s pursuit of Jacquet has been carefully constructed over several weeks. Club sources indicate that discussions with Rennes began nearly a month ago, with the Merseyside club pushing early to establish their position in negotiations.

Rennes had made it clear that any deal would need to break their existing transfer record, previously set by the sale of Jeremy Doku in 2023. Liverpool were willing to meet those demands, recognising both Jacquet’s potential and the scarcity of elite young centre-backs in the market.

The agreement reflects Liverpool’s preference for early, decisive action. By moving swiftly, they were able to secure favourable terms and avoid a prolonged bidding war. The structure of the deal also allows Rennes to retain the player until the summer, ensuring continuity for their domestic campaign.

For Liverpool, the move fits their wider recruitment strategy: targeting high-upside players before their valuation rises further, while spreading payments across manageable instalments.

Chelsea Interest Cools Amid Defensive Planning

Chelsea had been monitoring Jacquet closely and were initially expected to compete strongly for his signature. However, their position shifted in the final stages of negotiations.

Despite being comfortable with Rennes’ valuation, Chelsea opted not to progress to advanced talks over personal terms. Internal assessments suggested that alternative options within their squad reduced the urgency of the deal.

The return of Mamadou Sarr from his Strasbourg loan, combined with faith in Josh Acheampong’s development, influenced Chelsea’s thinking. Club officials were also keen to avoid blocking pathways for emerging defenders.

This recalibration allowed Liverpool to move ahead without resistance. While Chelsea remain active in the market, Jacquet was ultimately deemed a lower priority compared to other areas of recruitment.

The episode highlights contrasting approaches. Liverpool identified Jacquet as a strategic investment, while Chelsea chose to redirect resources elsewhere.

Jacquet Profile and Long-Term Potential

At 20 years old, Jacquet is widely regarded as one of the most promising defenders in French football. His performances for Rennes this season have drawn praise for composure, positional awareness, and distribution from the back.

Standing at over six feet, he combines physical presence with technical quality. Scouts have highlighted his ability to defend high lines, an attribute that aligns closely with Liverpool’s tactical model under Slot.

Internationally, Jacquet has become a regular at Under-21 level, further strengthening his profile. His maturity in possession and comfort in high-pressure situations suggest he is well equipped for Premier League demands.

Liverpool view him as a long-term cornerstone rather than an immediate starter. The plan is for gradual integration, allowing him to adapt physically and tactically before taking on a central role.

With injuries having disrupted defensive continuity in recent seasons, the club believes Jacquet can offer stability and depth over the next decade.

Strategic Impact on Liverpool and Chelsea

For Liverpool, securing Jacquet sends a clear message about their intent to refresh the squad while remaining competitive domestically and in Europe. Missing out on previous defensive targets has sharpened their focus, making this agreement particularly significant.

The deal also reinforces Liverpool’s reputation for efficiency in the market. Acting early reduces uncertainty and provides clarity for future planning, both financially and tactically.

Chelsea, meanwhile, will continue to reassess their defensive options. Their decision not to pursue Jacquet reflects a more cautious approach following recent heavy spending. Attention may now turn to internal development or alternative targets.

From a wider perspective, the transfer underlines Liverpool’s ability to outmanoeuvre rivals when clear priorities are established. Drawing on information reported by talkSPORT, the agreement demonstrates how preparation and timing can prove decisive in modern recruitment.

If the move is completed as expected, Jacquet will arrive at Anfield in the summer as one of the club’s most expensive defensive signings, carrying both expectation and opportunity.

With Liverpool and Chelsea both recalibrating their squads, this transfer could shape defensive dynamics in the Premier League for years to come.