Journalist reveals how Liverpool ‘hijacked’ Chelsea’s move for Jeremy Jacquet | OneFootball

Liverpool Secure Jeremy Jacquet Deal From Rennes Ahead of Summer Window

Liverpool have completed a deal to sign Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes, with the 20-year-old defender undergoing a medical today ahead of a formal transfer this summer. The news was revealed during an insightful episode of Media Matters on Anfield Index, where host Dave Davis was joined by respected journalist Lewis Steele to dissect the story in detail.

“It looks like a good signing”

Lewis Steele, who was among the first to report Liverpool’s interest in Jacquet, confirmed the club had moved swiftly to complete the deal before the deadline, despite the transfer being one for the upcoming window. “It does look like a good signin’ for Liverpool,” said Steele, noting that the Merseyside club had successfully sold the project to Jacquet, especially in comparison to competition from Chelsea.

“I think Liverpool… I don’t know whether they’ve hijacked it because I don’t know how close he actually was to Chelsea. But I think basically they’ve won it because Liverpool have sold them a better prospect of, you know, come to us and you’ll be in the first team,” Steele explained. He added, “Whereas come to Chelsea, you’ve got eight other defenders that they’ve signed in the last two weeks.”

Strategic Move for the Future

The Reds’ approach reflects a broader strategic focus on rejuvenating their defensive line. Steele stated, “It’s just clever just getting it done early… they do think this is a coup. They are pleased to get this over the line.” The reported £60 million fee for the French youth international is not insignificant, and Steele noted that “you’re not really getting a top defender for under fifty mil” in today’s market.

Jacquet brings experience despite his young age and is seen as part of Liverpool’s long-term plan to refresh the backline. “He’s twenty years old, he’s got a whole career ahead of him,” Steele added. “This is another step in the right direction” as the club plan for life beyond Virgil van Dijk and consider their options amidst ongoing contract uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konaté.

Concerns Around Konaté and Defensive Depth

While Jacquet’s arrival is seen as positive, some supporters have speculated that it may be linked to Konaté’s unresolved contract situation. Addressing that theory, Steele clarified, “Nothing has been decided with Konaté yet,” but did admit “it is something to worry about.” He added, “Everyone is presuming that Konaté will leave… However, there’s no real noise about where he’s going, which makes me think that he could end up just staying.”

Regardless of Konaté’s future, Steele believes Liverpool “need a defender anyway” and the Jacquet deal reflects proactive planning. “Maybe they will need one more in the summer,” he said, noting the wider concerns around Joe Gomez’s injury record and expiring contracts for several senior defenders.

Photo: IMAGO

Liverpool Lowering Squad Age With Smart Investment

Jacquet’s signing continues Liverpool’s trend of investing in youth. Steele pointed to this as a wider theme under the current regime. “The average age of the squad is going in the right direction,” he said. Citing examples like Leonie and Szoboszlai, he added, “They’re all still young… so it’s another good deal for Liverpool.”

Liverpool fans will now wait for the official announcement and look forward to seeing Jacquet in action from next season under Arne Slot, who continues to rebuild the squad following his title-winning campaign.