Liverpool moved quickly on deadline day, striking a verbal agreement to sign Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet in a deal worth up to £60 million.
The French defender completed a medical at Anfield on February 2, 2026, though he won’t join Arne Slot’s squad until summer 2026. This move signals a clear intent to future-proof the Reds’ defense.
No official club confirmation came from Liverpool or Rennes that day. But reports from various outlets, including Sky Sports, confirmed the verbal agreement and medical. It’s a big fee for a 20-year-old, but Liverpool’s scouting department seems convinced.
Reds Beat Rivals for Jacquet’s Signature
This wasn’t an uncontested signing. Liverpool had to fight for Jeremy Jacquet. Chelsea, apparently, matched Liverpool’s bid. But it was the Reds who secured the French talent.
Bayern Munich also showed interest. But Liverpool won the race for the young defender. Jacquet, who holds 5 caps for France U21s, is a player many see making the senior squad soon. Maybe even for the 2026 World Cup.
The transfer fee is reported consistently: £55 million upfront, plus £5 million in add-ons, according to ESPN. GOAL cited a slightly different structure, £50 million initial plus £10 million incentives. Either way, it’s a significant investment.
Anfield’s Long-Term Defensive Vision
Liverpool’s defensive needs are clear. Ibrahima Konate’s contract expires at the end of the 2025-26 season. And Virgil van Dijk turns 35 in summer 2026. His contract goes until 2027.
Jacquet provides youth and long-term stability. He’s known for his composure, athleticism, and passing range. Those traits fit Arne Slot’s system perfectly. Liverpool’s also been focusing on young talents, like Giovanni Leoni, in recent windows. It’s a strategy to build for the future.
Jacquet’s been a key player for Rennes. He’s started every league match this season, missing only two due to suspension. He’s got under 100 senior appearances but has already shown he can perform under pressure.
The Waiting Game Until Summer 2026
The deal is done, but the wait begins. Jacquet won’t arrive at Anfield until July 2026, after the current season finishes. He stays at Rennes for the remainder of the 2025-26 campaign.
The speculation around Jacquet started in summer 2025, after Liverpool’s interest in Marc Guehi cooled. Things heated up in January 2026. And then, on deadline day, the agreement was made.
A reporter via OneFootball stated, “Liverpool have completed a deal to sign Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes, with the 20-year-old defender undergoing a medical today.”
This move shows Liverpool are planning well ahead. They’re securing talent for years to come. Fans won’t see him immediately. But Jacquet’s arrival in 2026 promises an exciting new chapter for the club’s defense.
