Liverpool Beat Chelsea to Sign Rennes Defender Jeremy Jacquet in £60m Deal

Liverpool have successfully negotiated a £60 million transfer package for 20-year-old Rennes center-back Jeremy Jacquet, edging out Chelsea in a competitive race for his signature.

The agreement includes an initial £55 million fee with an additional £5 million in performance-related add-ons.

Although Chelsea were initially seen as the frontrunners for the France U21 international, the Reds secured the deal, which will see Jacquet remain at Rennes on loan for the rest of the season before arriving at Anfield in the summer.

He has reportedly agreed to a contract running until 2030, with an option for a further year.

This acquisition follows Liverpool’s unsuccessful summer pursuit of Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, who recently completed a move to Manchester City.

The club also considered a short-term loan for Lutsharel Geertruida but decided against it due to complexities.

Jacquet, who has made 18 Ligue 1 appearances this season, is considered a key part of Liverpool’s long-term strategy under manager Arne Slot, joining a roster of recent high-profile young signings including Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, and Milos Kerkez.