Liverpool tipped to sign defender with ‘huge potential’ in January | OneFootball

Jeremy Jacquet Emerges as Liverpool Monitor Centre-Back Options

Liverpool’s search for defensive reinforcement is intensifying as the January transfer window approaches, and one name continues to surface with growing regularity: Jeremy Jacquet. The Rennes centre-back has been repeatedly linked with Liverpool in recent months, and discussion around his profile reflects both the club’s immediate needs and its longer-term planning.

With Liverpool operating on a reduced fixture schedule and injuries stretching defensive resources, recruitment at centre-back is no longer a theoretical discussion. It is becoming an operational necessity. Against that backdrop, Jacquet’s situation is being closely watched.

Liverpool Defensive Needs Shape January Thinking

Liverpool enter the new year with uncertainty around availability and depth at centre-back, and that context frames any discussion around potential incomings. The requirement is clear: durability, athleticism and readiness to step into a demanding environment.

As Dave Davis put it during News Round, “There’s got to be a centre-half coming through the door on the first of January.” That urgency is shaping the shortlist, and it is why Jacquet’s name continues to resurface.

“I think this name just won’t go away,” Davis said. “Jeremy Jacquet makes all the sense in the world, doesn’t he?”

Liverpool’s recruitment model has long prioritised players who can grow into the role while still offering immediate utility. Jacquet appears to fit that bracket, particularly given his age and experience relative to minutes played at senior level.

Jacquet Profile Fits Liverpool Recruitment Model

At just over 20 years old, Jacquet is seen as a player with significant upside rather than a finished article. That, however, is not viewed as a drawback.

“In terms of just over 20, huge potential, huge ceiling,” Davis explained. “You see the way he plays for Rennes, the space he covers and the attributes as well.”

Physically, Jacquet already measures up to the demands of top-level football. His aerial performance stands out for a player of his age, drawing comparisons with the type of centre-backs Liverpool have traditionally valued.

“An aerial duel success at 20 years old of over 70 per cent is brilliant,” Davis noted. “It’s about the aerial beasts we’ve had for so many years.”

Beyond raw physicality, his defensive output across key metrics strengthens the case.

“In terms of his metrics, 96th percentile for interceptions and 82nd for tackles,” Davis added. “We’ve talked about his aerial duels as well.”

Those numbers underline why Liverpool’s data-led recruitment team are believed to view Jacquet as a viable target, particularly in a system that places heavy emphasis on recovery speed, anticipation and coverage.

Tactical Fit and Areas for Development

While Jacquet’s defensive attributes are clear, there is also realism around his limitations. He is not being touted as a polished ball-playing centre-back, but that is not necessarily a disqualifying factor at Liverpool.

“Not the greatest on the ball,” Davis admitted, “but neither is Konaté.”

That comparison is telling. Liverpool have shown they are willing to accommodate different centre-back profiles, provided they offer dominance in duels, positional discipline and the ability to defend space aggressively.

“If you watch Rennes, the ground he covers and what he’s asked to do in the way they play,” Davis said, pointing to a tactical workload that mirrors many of the physical demands placed on Liverpool defenders.

Crucially, timing also plays a role. A January move for a young centre-back willing to adapt quickly carries strategic appeal.

“I just think this makes all the sense in the world,” Davis said. “In a World Cup year, a centre-half who would be willing to move at this time would be available.”

Competition and January Window Reality

Liverpool are not alone in tracking Jacquet, and interest from elite European clubs has been noted.

“It’s no surprise that Real Madrid have been linked with Jeremy Jacquet on a regular basis as well,” Davis said.

That level of competition adds urgency to Liverpool’s thinking, particularly if they intend to act decisively in January rather than wait until the summer.

“Honestly, it’s one I think we’d all be ecstatic if Liverpool got done in the January window,” Davis concluded. “Because let’s be honest, there needs to be at least one coming through the door.”

As Liverpool balance immediate defensive needs with long-term squad building, Jacquet represents a profile that aligns with both objectives. Whether talks progress beyond monitoring remains to be seen, but his name is unlikely to disappear any time soon.