In a dramatic turn of events on Deadline Day, Liverpool have reportedly reached a verbal agreement with Rennes for the transfer of coveted centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, snatching him from under the noses of Chelsea. The deal, worth up to £60 million, marks a significant coup for the Anfield side as they look to bolster their defensive options.

Reports indicate that Liverpool will pay a guaranteed £55 million, with a further £5 million in performance-related add-ons. The 20-year-old Jacquet, considered one of the most promising young defenders in Europe, will remain at Rennes for the rest of the current Ligue 1 season before officially joining Liverpool in the summer. He is expected to undergo his medical with Liverpool on Deadline Day.

Chelsea have been long-time admirers of Jacquet, and were engaged in talks with Rennes earlier in January. However, the Blues were reportedly unwilling to meet Rennes' asking price, which would have surpassed the €60 million Manchester City paid for Jérémy Doku in 2023. Liverpool, needing a centre-back, swooped in with a late bid that satisfied the French club's demands.

Several factors reportedly influenced Jacquet's decision to choose Liverpool over Chelsea. Sky Sports reports that Chelsea offered the same deal as Liverpool, but Jacquet changed his mind and decided to move to Liverpool. This decision seemingly occurred in the past 48 hours, coinciding with Mamadou Sarr's return to Chelsea and Josh Acheampong staying.

The acquisition of Jacquet raises questions about the future of current Liverpool centre-back Ibrahima Konate, who has only months remaining on his contract. There is little expectation that Konate will extend his stay at Anfield. Liverpool had previously missed out on Marc Guehi, who joined Manchester City earlier in the month, and briefly considered a loan move for Lutsharel Geertruida.

Chelsea, meanwhile, are expected to finalize Mamadou Sarr's return on Deadline Day and have been linked with other defensive targets, including a late bid for Nantes' Tylel Tati, which was reportedly rejected. Liam Rosenior, Chelsea's head coach, has confirmed that the club is actively looking to strengthen the team before the deadline.

The signing of Jeremy Jacquet represents a significant investment in Liverpool's future and a statement of intent as they aim to compete for major honors. With personal terms expected to be a formality, the young Frenchman is set to become an integral part of the Reds' squad come summer.