Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy has voiced surprise over the club’s decision to sign Rennes centre-back Jeremy Jacquet, describing the move as “odd” given the Reds’ current defensive setup.
Liverpool have reportedly reached a verbal agreement to sign the 20-year-old France Under-21 international of Ivorian heritage in a deal worth up to £60 million, with Jacquet expected to complete his medical on Monday ahead of a summer transfer.
The Rennes defender, who has yet to feature for France’s senior team or in European club competitions, is considered one of the brightest defensive prospects in Europe.
Manager Arne Slot moved quickly to secure Jacquet after Liverpool missed out on Marc Guehi, signalling the club’s intention to invest in long-term defensive reinforcements.
Despite Jacquet’s potential, Murphy has expressed concern over the timing of the acquisition.
“It’s odd, especially because they are so reliant on the Van Dijk-Konate partnership,” Murphy said.
“I wouldn’t find it as odd if they were only fighting for the Premier League, because they’re out of it, but they’ve got a great chance in the Champions League, and they don’t really have any cover because Gomez is never fit.”
The former Reds star highlights Liverpool’s lack of dependable backup at centre-back as a key factor that makes the signing unusual, particularly in the context of their European ambitions.
Jacquet is expected to sign a five-year deal, running until the summer of 2031, with an option for an additional year.
Liverpool’s management appears determined to secure the deal before the transfer window closes at 7 pm, emphasizing their urgency to bolster defensive options.
The move signals both a commitment to future planning and a calculated risk, with Jacquet’s rapid rise to prominence contrasting with his limited experience at the highest level of European football.
