Liverpool are set to beat Chelsea to the signing of Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet in a huge blow for the Blues.
Chelsea have been in talks for several weeks with Rennes for the 20-year-old after expressing their interest in the central defender, as they look to bolster Liam Rosenior's defence.
Rosenior's side had reached an agreement over personal terms, with Jacquet reportedly keen on a move to Stamford Bridge.
Discussions were ongoing between the clubs, with Rennes wanting to keep hold of Jacquet for the remainder of the season.
Liam Rosenior, Chelsea
IMAGO / Every Second Media
Chelsea continued to assess all options, including recalling Aaron Anselmino from Borussia Dortmund to move to Strasbourg, who would then see Mamadou Sarr - who is set to fly to London - return to Stamford Bridge from his loan spell in France.
Liverpool remained in the background whilst Chelsea attempted to finalise a deal for Jacquet, and Arne Slot's side have now won the race to sign the Rennes talent.
As revealed by Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool have reached an agreement with Rennes over a deal worth an initial €60m plus €10m in add-ons for Jacquet.
Jeremy Jacquet
IMAGO / PsnewZ
Personal terms between Liverpool and Jacquet have been agreed, which will see him make the switch to Anfield this summer.
Fabrice Hawkins of RMC Sport states Jacquet will be loaned back to Rennes immediately after Liverpool complete the transfer.
Chelsea will now need to turn to other defensive targets should they still wish to add another centre-back this summer.
For now, they will have to settle with Sarr's return as they cope with the injury absences of Levi Colwill and Tosin Adarabioyo.