Liverpool agree £60m summer deal for Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet

Liverpool have reached an agreement with Rennes to sign highly rated defender Jeremy Jacquet in a deal worth up to £60m, though the centre-back will remain in France until the end of the season, Sport360NG reports.

The Reds have agreed to pay an initial £55m fee, with a further £5m in performance-related add-ons, for the 20-year-old, who is expected to complete a medical ahead of a summer move. Personal terms are not anticipated to pose any problems, with Jacquet keen on the switch to Anfield.

Chelsea had held discussions with the France Under-21 international during the January transfer window, but sources indicate the London club are unwilling to match Liverpool’s offer.

Liverpool are prioritising reinforcements in central defence, with uncertainty surrounding the future of Ibrahima Konate, whose current contract expires at the end of the campaign.

Arne Slot’s side had previously targeted Marc Guehi last summer, but the England international later opted to join Manchester City in January.

A product of the Rennes academy, Jacquet has made 18 appearances in all competitions this season and has impressed with a series of assured performances. His rapid development has attracted interest from several top European clubs, but Liverpool view the defender as a long-term investment as they plan for the future.