Real Madrid plot twist emerges in Liverpool bid to seal sensational January signing
Liverpool are preparing to sign as many as two centre-backs within the next year as they look to cope with the possible departure of Ibrahima Konate.
Konate is likely to leave Liverpool at the end of his contract, which expires at the end of the season.
The France international has been in discussions to extend his deal at Anfield, but talks have come and gone without fruition.
Real Madrid’s interest in Konate has faded in recent months, however, which has left a small chance of the defender staying put.
But Konate has been in poor form for Liverpool this season, and there is a feeling that decision-makers at Anfield may well decide to cut their losses in January.
Real Madrid monitor Premier League target
Liverpool have placed Jeremy Jacquet on their shortlist ahead of a potential move for the Stade Rennais defender.
The 20-year-old looks to be the latest on the conveyor belt of supreme defensive talents to come out of France, with Arsenal also closely linked.
| Jeremy Jacquet | Ligue 1 2025-26 |
| Appearances | 15 |
| Tackles | 23 |
| Duels won | 66 |
| Interceptions | 16 |
| Recoveries | 63 |
The Gunners considered a move in the summer window, but ultimately opted to sign both Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie instead.
Interest has remained, however, with decision-makers at the Emirates Stadium continuing to monitor the talent.
The same can be said of Liverpool, who are also set to return for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi when his contract expires next summer.
Both Premier League clubs will begin to feel a sense of urgency, however, after Matte Moretto reported via Madrid Xtra that Real Madrid are closely watching Jacquet.
Los Blancos are again without Eder Militao, after the Brazilian suffered yet another serious long-term injury.
Who is Jeremy Jacquet?
There is a reason that Jacquet has so many admirers across Europe. The Frenchman is the picture of the modern centre-back.
Press-resistant and technically superb, but more than capable of throwing his tall, strong frame around to win the ball and shrug off attackers.
The 20-year-old has a great reading of the game and is already a mainstay in the Stade Rennais team, despite his age.
Sebastian Bichard, assistant manager, described Jacquet as “dominant, easy, without ever being nonchalant”.
Several young French defenders have made the move from Ligue 1 in recent years, including William Saliba, Leny Yoro, and Wesley Fofana.
The move that saw Yoro sign for Manchester United cost around £58million, and has likely set the benchmark for similar transfers. Given the options available to Jacquet, that fee could well rise well beyond.