Liverpool move ahead of Chelsea to agree £60m deal for Rennes defender Jacquet

Liverpool have moved ahead of Chelsea to reach an agreement with Rennes for highly rated defender Jeremy Jacquet in a deal worth up to £60m, with the transfer set to be completed in the summer window.

The Reds have agreed to pay an initial £55m fee, with a further £5m included as performance-related add-ons, subject to the player passing a medical.

Jacquet will remain with Rennes for the rest of the current season and is not expected to join Liverpool until the end of the campaign.

Liverpool win transfer race

The 20-year-old centre-back had attracted interest from several top European clubs after a series of impressive performances in Ligue 1, with Chelsea among those who held discussions with the player during the winter transfer window.

However, Chelsea are not expected to match Liverpool’s offer, effectively ending their pursuit.

Personal terms are understood to be straightforward, with no major obstacles anticipated in finalising the agreement with the France Under-21 international.

Liverpool view Jacquet as a strategic acquisition and a long-term addition to their defensive unit rather than an immediate solution.

Jacquet is a product of the Rennes academy and has featured 18 times in all competitions this season.

His composure on the ball, physical presence, and tactical awareness have elevated his profile and accelerated interest from elite clubs.

Defensive planning at anfield

Liverpool’s move reflects forward planning in defence, particularly with uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konate’s future.

The France international’s current contract is set to expire at the end of the season, and while no departure has been confirmed, the club is actively assessing succession options.

The Reds were previously active in the centre-back market but missed out on England international Marc Guehi, before the defender completed a January move to Manchester City.