Exclusive: Liverpool Agree £60m Deal for Rennes' Jeremy Jacquet, Chelsea's Target
In a major transfer development, Liverpool have reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Rennes for the signing of 20-year-old centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, who has been a target for Chelsea. The deal, worth up to £60 million, is set to bring the highly-rated French youth player to Anfield in the summer.
Jacquet's potential move to Liverpool comes as a surprise, given that Chelsea had also been in pursuit of his signature. However, recent team dynamics have influenced the player's decision. With the return of Mamadou Sarr and the retention of Josh Acheampong, Chelsea's squad is now considered overloaded with young centre-backs, making regular playing time harder to come by for Jacquet.
Liverpool, on the other hand, are in need of defensive reinforcements. With Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate as their only fit senior centre-backs, the club is eager to secure Jacquet's services to bolster their defensive options. The deal is a significant investment, but it reflects Liverpool's belief in Jacquet's potential, which is a common theme in their recent transfer strategy.
The transfer saga began last summer when Liverpool's move for Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace fell through at the last minute. Guehi eventually signed for Manchester City for £20 million, a move that Liverpool had considered but not at the same price. Now, with Konate's contract set to expire at the end of the season, Liverpool is taking a chance on Jacquet, who has been impressive in recent seasons with Rennes.
French football expert Julien Laurens praised Jacquet's potential, drawing comparisons to William Saliba and Wesley Fofana. Laurens highlighted Jacquet's impressive performances last season and this season, suggesting that his talent and potential are worth the substantial fee.
As the transfer window heats up, Liverpool's agreement with Rennes for Jacquet is a significant development, and it remains to be seen if Chelsea will make a last-ditch effort to bring him to Stamford Bridge.
