Top clubs are in the race to sign Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet, according to transfer news expert Fabrizio Romano.
As it stands, Liverpool and Chelsea are understood to be in active dialogue with Rennes and the player’s agent as they seek to work out a framework for a future move rather than an immediate transfer.
Sources close to the situation say Bayern Munich are unlikely to pursue the deal at this stage, with the issue largely centered around England.
Importantly, Rennes are determined to keep Jaquet at least until July 2026, and this stance has shaped the negotiations.
Rennes are doomed to lose Jacket in the future
The Ligue 1 side are reluctant to weaken their defensive depth in the short term as they see the highly-rated centre-back as the core of their medium-term project.
Therefore, if an agreement is reached at this time, it would be structured as a deferred transfer, allowing Rennes to continue to benefit from his development while ensuring long-term financial transparency.
Jacquet is steadily establishing himself as one of the most promising young defenders in French football.
During the 2025/26 season, he featured regularly in Ligue 1 and domestic cup competitions, racking up significant minutes for a player of his age.
His strengths lie in positional awareness, aerial timing, and calm delivery under pressure.
This season’s Ligue 1 stats show that he is one of Rennes’ most reliable defenders due to his success in duels and progressive passing, showing his growing tactical maturity.
Liverpool and Chelsea are in a battle for young players
Liverpool’s interest aligns well with their long-term team plans. With the club increasingly focused on revamping their defensive options over the next two periods, Jaquet is seen as more of a high-ceiling investment than an immediate starter.
With defender Ibrahima Konate’s future uncertain, the Reds have been forced to look for a new defender on the market. Not to be forgotten, they also missed out on signing Marc Gehi, who recently joined Manchester City.
Meanwhile, Chelsea continue to track the profiles of elite young players across Europe, and given Jaquet’s age, contract situation and development curve, he fits naturally into their recruitment model.
While a final decision is not imminent, the fact that negotiations are ongoing at this stage highlights how highly valued Jaquet is across the market.
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