Liverpool have strengthened their defence for the future by completing the signing of highly rated French centre-back Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes in a deal worth up to £60 million.
The 20-year-old arrives at Anfield after a breakthrough campaign in Ligue 1, where his composed displays and defensive maturity attracted interest from several of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Although Chelsea matched Liverpool’s financial offer, Jacquet opted for Merseyside, signing a five-year contract with the option of a further season.
The agreement was finalised after Jacquet completed his medical earlier this year before returning to Rennes to finish the campaign.
His season was cut short by a shoulder injury in February, but the defender has completed his rehabilitation and is expected to be fit for Liverpool’s pre-season preparations.
A product of Rennes’ academy, Jacquet made 33 senior appearances and also gained valuable first-team experience during a successful loan spell at Clermont Foot.
His performances have already earned him recognition with France’s Under-21 side, where he is regarded as one of the country’s brightest defensive prospects.
Speaking after the move, Jacquet described joining Liverpool as “a dream,” adding that seeing the club’s facilities made him even more eager to begin his journey.
Liverpool view the signing as part of their long-term recruitment strategy, focusing on emerging elite talent rather than established stars.
Jacquet is expected to compete alongside Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez and fellow defender Geovanni Leoni as the Reds continue to reshape their back line.
While the price tag reflects enormous potential, Liverpool believe they have secured one of Europe’s most exciting young defenders before his value rises even further.