Liverpool have reached an agreement to sign highly rated centre back Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes, securing the 20 year old’s signature ahead of the 2026–27 season in a move that underlines the club’s long term defensive planning.
The Premier League leaders confirmed the deal on Tuesday, with Jacquet set to remain in Ligue 1 for the rest of the current campaign before completing his move to Anfield next summer. Chelsea had explored a move for the France Under 21 international but were beaten to the agreement by Arne Slot’s side.
Jacquet has emerged as one of the most promising young defenders in France this season, making 18 Ligue 1 appearances so far and establishing himself as a regular in Rennes’ back line. The centre back has featured 31 times for the club since making his senior debut in January 2024, with additional top flight experience gained during a loan spell at Clermont Foot.
The transfer is subject to a work permit and international clearance, but Liverpool have already outlined their plans for the defender, who will join on a long term contract once his season in France concludes. Jacquet currently has five caps for France Under 21s and is viewed as a player with significant development potential.
Rennes have relied heavily on Jacquet’s composure and reading of the game throughout the campaign, with the defender playing a key role in their push for European qualification. The club currently sit sixth in Ligue 1 and remain involved in the Coupe de France, giving Jacquet the chance to finish his Rennes career with silverware contention still alive.
Liverpool’s interest intensified after a series of consistent performances that highlighted Jacquet’s aerial strength, calm distribution, and positional awareness. His ability to operate in a high defensive line is believed to have appealed strongly to Liverpool’s recruitment team.
Chelsea had held talks with the player earlier in the process, but Jacquet ultimately opted for a move to Merseyside. The London club have since recalled Mamadou Sarr from his loan spell at Strasbourg, effectively ending their pursuit.
Jacquet described the move as a major milestone in his career, while stressing his focus remains firmly on finishing the season strongly with Rennes. He expressed pride in joining Liverpool and a desire to end his time in red and black on a high note with his teammates and supporters.
Rennes manager Habib Beye acknowledged the club’s limitations in retaining a player of Jacquet’s profile, admitting the financial and sporting gap was decisive. He noted that the deal satisfied the club’s valuation while respecting the player’s ambitions, particularly the opportunity to compete in the Champions League.
Jacquet will now turn his attention to the second half of the Ligue 1 season, aiming to help Rennes secure a European place before making the switch to Anfield. For Liverpool, the agreement represents another calculated investment in youth, with the expectation that Jacquet can develop into a key figure in their future defensive structure.
