United’s late dash foiled as Liverpool close in on £60m Jacquet

Manchester United launched a last-minute bid to hijack Liverpool’s £60m move for Rennes centre-half Jeremy Jacquet — but the Reds have an agreement in place and expect the 20-year-old to complete a medical on deadline day. Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg says United made their play only hours before Liverpool tied up the details.

The chase: Liverpool sharper, United slower

Liverpool’s package is understood to be £55m guaranteed plus up to £5m in performance add-ons, with Jacquet set to join after the season. It’s the first meaningful bit of business in what’s been a notably quiet January at Anfield.

Jacquet, a product of the Rennes academy, has started all 18 of his Ligue 1 appearances this term and looks every inch a modern defender: quick across the turf, composed in possession and uncompromising in the duels.

United’s raid comes too late

United’s late dash underlines the scramble among England’s elite for top young centre-backs, but timing is everything in this game. By the time the Old Trafford hierarchy picked up the phone, Liverpool had already shaken hands with Rennes and the player’s camp.

Chelsea interest, but the Reds pay the rate

Chelsea sounded things out during the winter window, yet couldn’t match Liverpool’s offer. In a market where elite defenders are scarce, the Reds have paid what it takes to get a deal over the line before rivals could circle again.

What it means for Liverpool’s back line

For Liverpool, Jacquet feels like succession planning as much as immediate competition. With murmurs around Ibrahima Konate’s longer-term situation, adding a high-ceiling French centre-half preserves depth and raises the standard across the back four.

Right-back watch

There’s still scope for a late move at right-back before Monday’s cut-off. The Reds have looked at Lutsharel Geertruida, though any deal appears unlikely at this stage. If nothing else, Liverpool have shown they’re ready to act decisively when the terms are right.

Pundit’s verdict

This is a classic Premier League power play: rivals sniff an opening, Liverpool move first, and the rest are left chasing shadows. United’s intent is a positive sign for their rebuild, but recruitment is about planning as much as ambition. On this occasion, the Reds were simply smarter and swifter.

If you fancy weighing up where this leaves the title race and the summer merry-go-round, check out the best betting sites for prices and offers.