Liverpool Secures Young Talent Jacquet for £55m Amid Chelsea’s Interest

As the winter transfer window approaches its close, final terms for various player transfers are being established. Reports from Sky Sports indicate that young defender Jacquet is set to join Liverpool ahead of the 2026-27 season.

The transfer package arranged by Liverpool is reported to be worth £55 million ($75 million) as a guaranteed fee, with an additional £5 million available in potential add-ons. While personal terms with the player have yet to be finalized, they are not anticipated to present any significant challenges.

Jacquet, a France Under-21 international, is a product of Rennes’ academy and has made 18 appearances for the Ligue 1 club this season. His impressive performances have garnered attention from top clubs across Europe.

Chelsea had previously shown interest in Jacquet and were considered frontrunners for his signature. However, despite having engaged in discussions with the player and his representatives, Chelsea has opted not to match Liverpool’s bid. According to Sky Sports, Chelsea made a similar offer to Liverpool’s, but in light of recent developments concerning their squad, Jacquet decided to favor a move to Anfield.

Jacquet appears to be leaning towards Liverpool due to the promise of more regular playing time, as Chelsea’s squad is replete with promising centre-backs such as Trevoh Chalobah, Wesley Fofana, and Benoit Badiashile, among others. The competition for places at Chelsea is expected to be intense, particularly with the potential return of England international Levi Colwill from injury.

In contrast, Liverpool’s defensive options are currently limited. Both Joe Gomez and Giovanni Leoni are injured, while Ibrahima Konate faces uncertainty as his contract nears its end. Additionally, club captain Virgil van Dijk will celebrate his 35th birthday in July.

Arne Slot, Liverpool’s manager, had initially intended to add Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace to bolster the defense, but Manchester City secured the 25-year-old’s services during the winter transfer window, prompting Liverpool to seek alternatives.

Jacquet is viewed as a wise acquisition for Liverpool, with the potential to evolve into a significant asset for both the immediate and long-term future. His talent is evident, and French football expert Julien Laurens has praised him, noting that he reminds him of established defenders like William Saliba and Wesley Fofana. While acknowledging Jacquet’s youth and lack of experience in elite competitions, Laurens believes he possesses the attributes necessary for success.

Liverpool will hope to be able to offer Champions League football to Jacquet upon the completion of his transfer, as they continue their pursuit of European glory this season, currently sitting sixth in the Premier League table with 14 matches remaining.