It has now become a two-horse race for Liverpool transfer target Jeremy Jacquet, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.
There were claims that Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich were also in the mix for the Rennes defender, but speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano said the 20-year-old has made it clear he wants a move to England, with Chelsea and the Reds pushing to secure his signature:
“Don’t forget what I told you about Chelsea. Chelsea will try again for Jeremy Jacqiet now or in the summer. We will see. But for sure, Chelsea are in, absolutely in and going all in for Jeremy Jacquet. Liverpool also in the conversation. Liverpool also in talks. Bayern at the moment trying but seen as difficult as Premier League would be the priority of the player.”
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Rennes’ asking price is believed to be in the €65m (£56m) to €70m (£61m) range, so it may come down to who is prepared to stump up the cash.
Liverpool are planning for the summer
Any fans hoping that Jacquet could be recruited before the transfer deadline on Monday evening may be left disappointed.
Rennes have consistently made it clear that they don’t want to sell the centre-back this month, although they could agree a sale ahead of the summer.
The impending departure of Kader Meite to Al-Hilal is likely to see them double down, as they will receive €30m (£26m) for that transfer, so their financial situation is very secure.
Jacquet is not the only deal that the Reds could pursue
Romano and other journalists have said that the Merseysiders are discussing whether to bring in a right-back. Head coach Arne Slot has confirmed that Jeremie Frimpong will be sidelined for a few weeks with a hamstring injury.
With Conor Bradley also ruled out for a while, there is scope for strengthening the right-hand side of defence, but Slot has emphasised a move will only happen if the right target is found.
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