Manchester United is ramping up its recruitment efforts as it prepares for an important summer ahead.
Defensive planning is becoming essential due to contract uncertainties and injury concerns.
INEOS’ updated structure emphasizes the need for timely and decisive actions in the transfer market.
Past failures to secure key targets have sharpened the focus on identifying top talent early.
One highly regarded centre-back has reportedly slipped away from United just as it seemed they might secure him.
Manchester United made a last-minute attempt to sign Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet but were ultimately unsuccessful as Liverpool acted quickly to finalize their deal.
According to journalist Florian Plettenberg, United looked into the possibility of signing Jacquet mere hours before he agreed to join Liverpool at the end of the season.
The 20-year-old has emerged as a top performer in Ligue 1 this season and is set to make a significant move to Anfield after the current campaign.
Liverpool’s deal totals £60 million, which includes a £55 million fixed fee and an additional £5 million based on performance-related add-ons.
Jacquet is expected to complete his medical on transfer deadline day, marking Liverpool’s first confirmed signing of the year following a quieter January transfer window.
This acquisition is seen as a potential long-term replacement for Ibrahima Konate, whose contract runs out at the end of the season.
Plettenberg reports that United’s late attempt to disrupt the transfer was in vain, as Jacquet already had an agreement in place with Liverpool.
Chelsea also showed interest in the young defender and held discussions during the winter window, but they couldn’t match Liverpool’s offer for a player regarded as one of France’s top defensive prospects.
Jacquet has come through Rennes’ academy and has had a breakout season, appearing 18 times in Ligue 1 and starting every match he was available for.
His consistency, athleticism, and calmness on the ball have drawn attention from several European clubs, including United, as they evaluate their centre-back options ahead of potential squad changes.
While Liverpool has secured Jacquet early, United is expected to return to the market in the summer to reshape their defense under the new structure.