Liverpool's defensive gap after Konate: Jacquet joins for £55m

Liverpool face a centre‑back shortage after Ibrahima Konate’s contract ended and Giovanni Leoni’s ACL injury, prompting the Reds to secure 20‑year‑old France Under‑21 defender Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes, a £55 million signing with add‑ons up to £5 million, ready for this pre‑season.

Konate’s departure to Real Madrid left Liverpool without their primary centre‑back. Leoni’s debut was cut short by an anterior cruciate ligament injury, leaving the defensive line further depleted.

The club announced a five‑year contract with Jacquet, agreed in January, for a base fee of £55 million. Performance‑related add‑ons could raise the total to £60 million.

Jacquet suffered a shoulder injury shortly after the agreement but has completed a rehabilitation programme. He is now undertaking individual fitness work to regain full match readiness.

A product of the Rennes academy, the French Ligue 1 side saw him make 33 appearances. He was also named in the team of the tournament at the 2024 Under‑19 European Championship.

Jacquet said, "For me it's a big dream. It's a big club," expressing his enthusiasm. "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," he added.

He will join club captain Virgil van Dijk, alongside Joe Gomez, as part of head coach Andoni Iraola’s defensive options. Liverpool’s squad returns on 14 July before travelling to the United States on 20 July for a pre‑season tour.

Leoni, the 19‑year‑old Italian, continues his ACL rehabilitation with no set return date. The club expects him to be involved in pre‑season at some point, providing additional depth alongside Jacquet.