Liverpool Football Club has officially announced the high-profile signing of French centre-back Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes, in a deal that could rise to £60 million. The 20-year-old defender is set to join the Reds for the start of pre-season training, injecting fresh talent and a youthful vigour into Andoni Iraola’s squad.
A five-year contract was initially agreed upon in January, with an initial fee of £55 million plus an additional £5 million in add-ons. Jacquet, a France Under-21 international, has been on Liverpool’s radar for some time, particularly after his standout performance in the 2024 Under-19 Euros where he earned a spot in the team of the tournament.
Jacquet arrives at Anfield having successfully completed a rehabilitation programme following a shoulder injury sustained shortly after the initial agreement. He is now undergoing individual fitness work, ensuring he will be fully prepared when Liverpool players return on July 14, ahead of their pre-season tour to the US commencing July 20.
Jacquet’s Excitement and Impact on Defensive Line-up
Expressing his delight, Jacquet shared, "For me it’s a big dream. It’s a big club. I am very happy. When I see the facilities, I can see myself there. I feel good here and I am very excited to get started." His enthusiasm is palpable as he prepares to embark on this new chapter in his promising career.
Jacquet, a product of the Rennes academy where he made 33 appearances for the Ligue 1 side, will significantly bolster Liverpool’s defensive options. He joins club captain Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez, along with the recovering Giovanni Leoni, as new head coach Iraola looks to solidify his backline. This acquisition is particularly timely following the departure of Ibrahima Konate, who left the club for Real Madrid after his contract expired.
The arrival of Jacquet also provides crucial depth, especially with the ongoing recovery of Giovanni Leoni. The 19-year-old Italian defender, whose Anfield debut was unfortunately cut short by an anterior cruciate ligament injury, is continuing his fitness and rehabilitation. While no specific date has been set for Leoni’s return, Liverpool’s medical staff anticipate his involvement in pre-season at some point, offering further options to the squad.
With a blend of seasoned experience and burgeoning talent, Liverpool’s defence is shaping up to be a formidable force under Andoni Iraola, with Jeremy Jacquet poised to play a pivotal role in the Reds’ aspirations for the upcoming season.