Jeremy Jacquet Set for Record Liverpool Move as Rennes Secure Summer Exit
Liverpool are closing in on a landmark agreement for Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, with sources indicating that a deal worth more than €70 million is now in place ahead of a proposed summer transfer.
The 20-year-old centre-back has emerged as one of the most sought-after young defenders in European football this season, prompting intense interest from multiple Premier League clubs. However, Liverpool have moved decisively in recent days to secure his signature, with negotiations reaching an advanced stage.
According to reporting from Ouest-France, discussions between all parties were finalised late on Sunday night, following Jacquet’s medical assessment earlier this week. While the defender will remain at Rennes until the end of the campaign, the agreement will see him join Liverpool in July.
Liverpool Finalise Long-Term Defensive Investment
Liverpool’s pursuit of Jeremy Jacquet reflects a broader strategy aimed at reinforcing their defensive options with elite young talent capable of developing into long-term starters.
Club sources suggest that technical staff have monitored Jacquet’s progress for more than 18 months, impressed by his composure, aerial dominance and tactical maturity. Despite his age, the Frenchman has established himself as a defensive leader at Rennes, regularly organising the back line and dictating play from deep.
Negotiations intensified towards the end of the January window, with Liverpool accelerating talks once rival clubs signalled their own interest. Chelsea and Manchester United were both monitoring the situation, but Liverpool’s willingness to meet Rennes’ valuation proved decisive.
The agreement is understood to include performance-related bonuses, which could see the overall package rise further. If confirmed, the deal would represent the highest transfer fee received by Rennes, surpassing previous records.
Rennes Secure Major Fee While Retaining Stability
For Rennes, the structure of the deal has been central to its approval. While the club recognised the growing interest in Jeremy Jacquet, sporting directors were reluctant to weaken the squad mid-season.
By securing a delayed transfer, Rennes retain their defensive cornerstone for the remainder of the campaign while guaranteeing a substantial financial return in the summer. Internally, club officials viewed this outcome as the most balanced solution for both sporting and commercial priorities.
Jacquet’s decision to remain until the end of the season also reflected his commitment to helping Rennes pursue European qualification. Staff members have praised his professionalism throughout negotiations, noting that he continued to perform consistently despite ongoing speculation.
Rennes will now begin identifying potential replacements ahead of the summer window, with several domestic and overseas options already under consideration.
Player Commitment Shapes Transfer Timeline
Jeremy Jacquet’s personal stance played a crucial role in shaping the timing of the move. While receptive to Liverpool’s project, the defender expressed a clear desire to complete the season in France.
Sources close to the player indicate that he was attracted by Liverpool’s long-term vision, pathway to first-team football and emphasis on tactical development. Conversations with club representatives focused on sporting progression rather than immediate financial incentives.
Medical assessments were completed earlier this week, with no concerns reported. Contract terms have also been agreed in principle, with a long-term deal expected to be signed once the transfer window reopens.
Liverpool’s recruitment department believe Jacquet’s profile aligns with their evolving defensive structure, particularly in terms of ball progression and positional versatility.
Strategic Implications for Liverpool and Ligue 1
The prospective arrival of Jeremy Jacquet signals Liverpool’s intent to remain competitive in both domestic and European competitions by investing early in elite prospects.
From a broader perspective, the transfer underlines Ligue 1’s continued role as a major development pathway for Premier League recruitment. Rennes, in particular, have established themselves as a reliable source of emerging defensive talent.
For Liverpool, the deal represents a calculated commitment to squad evolution, balancing immediate performance with future planning. Jacquet is expected to integrate gradually, supported by experienced teammates and tailored coaching.
As the summer window approaches, further details are likely to emerge, but all indications suggest that this move is now a matter of formal completion rather than negotiation.
With both clubs aligned and the player committed, the transfer stands as one of the most significant cross-channel deals of the year.