Joyce: Liverpool aggressively pursuing deal for £60m Ligue 1 star | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Long View in Defence Comes Into Focus

Liverpool’s transfer activity often feels reactive when injuries bite or contracts tick down, but this report from Paul Joyce of The Times suggests something more deliberate unfolding behind the scenes. The pursuit of Stade Rennais defender Jérémy Jacquet, at a potential £60m package, points towards long-term planning rather than short-term firefighting, even as immediate defensive problems persist.

Jacquet, described as “a France under-21 international”, is only 20, yet already central to a developing tug of war between Liverpool and Chelsea. Rennes are holding firm at “around £55million, plus £5million in add-ons”, underlining both the player’s perceived ceiling and the premium now placed on elite young centre backs.

Jacquet Profile and Contract Context

The logic behind Jacquet’s appeal is clear. Joyce notes that he “could replace Konaté when his compatriot’s Liverpool deal runs out in the summer”, a line that carries weight given the uncertainty around Ibrahima Konaté’s future. With just four months left on that contract, Liverpool’s interest in a younger, controllable asset feels prudent, even if expensive.

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Liverpool had hoped to land Marc Guéhi before his move to Manchester City, and missing out there has sharpened the focus. Jacquet represents a different bet, less proven in the Premier League but arguably more aligned with a long-term vision. As one line in the piece implies, “it appears the Anfield club are now looking at longer term plans”, a shift that feels overdue after years of balancing elite starters with short-term fixes.

Summer Window Signals

What emerges most strongly from Joyce’s reporting is clarity. “A deal for the 20-year-old would only begin from this June”, reinforcing that Jacquet is not a panic buy. Liverpool are willing to wait, negotiate, and accept competition, even as Chelsea circle.

That patience hints at confidence in squad depth and faith that short-term gaps can be bridged. More importantly, it suggests Liverpool are trying to avoid repeating past cycles of late, expensive scrambling. Jacquet may or may not arrive, but the intent feels unmistakable.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a supporter’s perspective, this report lands with mixed emotions. On one hand, the idea of spending up to £60m on a 20 year old defender feels bold, even risky. Fans have seen how long adaptation can take, especially for centre backs arriving from Ligue 1. There is always the fear that patience demanded by a “project signing” runs out faster on the pitch than in the boardroom.

At the same time, there is relief that Liverpool appear to be planning ahead rather than reacting late. Konaté’s contract situation has been obvious for months. Missing out on Guéhi stung. Jacquet represents foresight, not improvisation.

Ultimately, this feels like a sensible gamble. Youth, resale value, and succession planning all align. What fans will want, though, is assurance that Jacquet, or someone like him, forms part of a broader defensive refresh, not a lone pillar expected to carry too much weight too soon.