Liverpool is taking steps to rebuild their squad, focusing on strengthening their defense as the season progresses.
Behind the scenes at Anfield, the club is balancing contract issues with future plans.
While attention has been on improving attacking options, the defense has now become a priority.
Other clubs are also eyeing the situation, looking for chances to disrupt Liverpool’s plans as the transfer window nears its end.
Liverpool has finalized the signing of Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, as announced on their website. This deal has been months in the making, and they successfully fended off a late challenge from Manchester United.
According to Liverpool’s official site: “Liverpool have reached an agreement for the transfer of Jeremy Jacquet from Stade Rennais, with the defender set to join the club ahead of the 2026-27 season, pending a work permit and international clearance.”
The statement added: “The Reds have secured a deal for the 20-year-old that will see him finish the season in Ligue 1 before moving to Anfield this summer on a long-term contract.”
The French defender will officially join Liverpool after the current season ends. The total deal is valued at £55 million, with an additional £5 million tied to performance-related incentives.
Importantly, Manchester United made a last-minute effort to take over the transfer just before Jacquet’s commitment to Liverpool was finalized.
Despite United’s attempts to get involved, the defender had already made a firm agreement with Liverpool.
Chelsea also showed interest in Jacquet earlier in the transfer window and spoke with his representatives but were unable to match Liverpool’s financial offer or their long-term vision.
By the time Manchester United expressed interest, the details of the deal were already set.
Jacquet’s signing could be crucial for Liverpool’s defensive strategy.
With Ibrahima Konate’s contract ending this season and uncertainty over center-back options, the young defender is seen as both immediate support and a building block for the future.
A graduate of the Rennes academy, Jacquet has played 18 Ligue 1 matches this season, starting every one and quickly becoming known as one of France’s most dependable young defenders.
Liverpool acted quickly and decisively to secure Jacquet’s signing, overcoming late competition from rivals.