Liverpool manager Arne Slot has publicly addressed the club's successful acquisition of French centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, sending a clear message to Chelsea after the Reds secured the highly-rated defender's signature. The 20-year-old talent, widely regarded as one of the most promising young players globally, was the subject of intense transfer speculation during the January window.
Chelsea's Pursuit and Liverpool's Late Swoop
Chelsea had appeared to be leading the race to sign Jacquet, with new Stamford Bridge boss Liam Rosenior reportedly keen to bring the defender to west London. The Blues' hierarchy were prepared to invest nearly £50 million to finalise a deal, viewing Jacquet as a key addition to their squad. However, Liverpool intervened decisively towards the end of the transfer period, hijacking the move by agreeing a £60 million fee with Ligue 1 side Rennes.
The agreement stipulates that Jacquet will remain in France to complete the current campaign with Rennes before making his anticipated move to Anfield in the summer. Liverpool confirmed the deal in an official statement, noting that the player will join on a long-term contract. Jacquet, who has earned five caps for France's Under-21 side, has made 18 appearances for Rennes in Ligue 1 this season and 31 overall since his debut in January 2024.
Slot's Assessment of the Signing
Speaking at his pre-match press conference ahead of Liverpool's crucial Premier League clash with Manchester City, Slot expressed his delight at securing Jacquet's services. 'Very pleasing of course,' the Anfield boss remarked. 'First of all he's a very big talent and maybe even more than talent but we of course speak about talent because of his age.'
Slot emphasised the competitive nature of the transfer, highlighting that Liverpool were not the only club interested in the young defender. 'Secondly, because we weren't the only one interested in him so it's a big compliment to the people working really hard to sign players,' he added. The manager framed the signing as emblematic of Liverpool's strategic model, focusing on recruiting young, talented players with significant potential for growth.
'Such a big talent and another example of the model we're using at this club – young, very talented players sometimes at the start of their careers or sometimes already a little bit a few years into their career,' Slot explained. 'But always they are players that are young and can improve us and help us in the short-term but also definitely in the long-term.'
Jacquet's Profile and Potential Impact
Jeremy Jacquet's credentials extend beyond his club performances; he notably helped France reach the final of the Under-19 European Championship in 2024, where he was named in the Team of the Tournament. His development included a loan spell with Clermont Foot, providing valuable Ligue 1 experience.
French football expert Julian Laurens offered insight into Jacquet's abilities, describing him as having 'everything to become one of the best centre-backs in the world in the next few years.' Laurens praised the defender's physical attributes, noting his height, speed, and strength, alongside his proficiency in aerial and ground duels. While acknowledging areas for technical improvement, Laurens suggested Jacquet could evolve into a player reminiscent of Liverpool legend Virgil van Dijk.
Liverpool's Current Situation and Upcoming Fixtures
Jacquet's arrival is expected to bolster a Liverpool defence that has conceded 33 goals in the Premier League this season, as the reigning champions currently sit sixth in the table, two points outside the top four. Slot acknowledged the significance of upcoming matches, particularly Sunday's encounter with Manchester City.
'We know the importance of a result on Sunday but that goes for all teams in the Premier League this weekend – it's the end phase of the season so results matter more and more,' Slot stated. He recognised City's enduring quality, referencing their recent performances despite squad rotations.
This transfer saga underscores the intense competition for emerging talent in European football, with Liverpool's successful pursuit marking a significant coup in the January market. Chelsea's missed opportunity highlights the unpredictable nature of transfer negotiations, as clubs vie to secure the services of football's next generation of stars.
