Liverpool has just pulled off one of the most notable moves in the final stages of the winter transfer window, reaching an agreement to sign young center-back Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes for approximately £61 million. This deal was completed despite Chelsea having closely pursued the French player and even reaching a personal agreement with him.
Jacquet, only 19 years old and 1.88m tall, is considered one of the most promising young center-backs in Europe. His consistent performance, excellent situational awareness, and composure beyond his years have attracted the attention of many big clubs, with Chelsea being the most persistent suitor throughout the January transfer window. However, Rennes resolutely refused to let their defensive mainstay leave in the middle of the season, causing negotiations with the London club to stall.
Jeremy Jacquet is playing outstandingly.
Meanwhile, Liverpool under manager Arne Slot took a different approach. Instead of pressuring to bring the player in immediately, the Anfield club quickly agreed with Rennes on a transfer plan that would take effect from the summer. According to informed sources, the two clubs reached an agreement worth approximately £61 million plus add-ons, a figure sufficient to persuade the Ligue 1 club to release the player after the 2025/26 season concludes.
This fee is also considered a record sale for Rennes, surpassing even the transfer of Jeremy Doku to Manchester City in 2023. Selling Jacquet in January would mean the French club would lose his services for the remainder of the season, so the “early agreement, late transfer” solution is considered the optimal option for both sides.
According to Sky Sports, Jacquet is expected to complete his medical examination on the final day of the transfer window. The reason he chose Liverpool over Chelsea wasn’t simply about the contract value, but also about the professional prospects. At Anfield, the opportunities for playing time and career development are considered clearer, while at Stamford Bridge, the presence of Josh Acheampong and Chelsea’s recall of Mamadou Sarr from Strasbourg would make competition for a place in the team much tougher.
If all procedures are completed as planned, Jeremy Jacquet will officially join Liverpool from next summer. This is not only a “snatch” from Chelsea, but also a strategic move, showing that Liverpool remains committed to its philosophy of youth development and systematic investment in the defense for many years to come.