France’s U21 international centre-back Jérémy Jacquet has spoken extensively to Ouest-France ahead of his €65 million transfer to Liverpool. The agreement between Rennes and the English giants was finalised during the winter transfer window, setting the stage for Jacquet’s move to Anfield. However, his final season with Stade Rennais came to an early end after he suffered a serious shoulder injury in early February.

Jacquet explained that he had long envisioned himself as a Liverpool player, dismissing suggestions that the Reds swooped in late to secure his signature. “I had been talking to them for a long time. It didn’t happen in the span of a week…” he said. The defender also confirmed that Manchester United had shown interest in signing him, while noting that Chelsea’s extensive squad was a factor behind his decision not to join the London club.

The young Frenchman said that his choice to join Liverpool was influenced by the club’s sporting vision and legacy, even with uncertainty surrounding Arne Slot’s future following a disappointing Premier League title defence. “I spoke with the management; the club’s history weighed heavily on my decision, but so did the project they offered me,” Jacquet explained.

Having undergone shoulder surgery in the spring, Jacquet remains confident about his recovery and readiness for the upcoming season. “I still have over a month to go. I’ll be ready,” he assured.

— Reported by Bastien Cheval