Liverpool Linked with Potential January Move for 20-year-old Defender

Credit to David Lynch who spoke with Dave Davis for Anfield Index for the original reporting and insight that shapes this discussion. The defensive landscape at Liverpool has shifted rapidly in recent weeks, and the growing uncertainty around key personnel has pushed January firmly into focus for the Premier League champions. With Arne Slot navigating both a title defence and the need to maintain balance across a demanding campaign, the club’s recruitment plans have accelerated.

Giovanni Leoni’s season-ending injury removed a crucial option from Slot’s rotation at a moment when Ibrahima Konate is battling inconsistency and carrying the weight of a contract that expires in seven months. It leaves Liverpool short in an area where stability has historically defined their strongest seasons. The search for reinforcements has already begun, and the Rennes defender Jeremy Jacquet is emerging as one of the most intriguing potential solutions.

Jacquet’s Profile and Why Liverpool Are Watching Closely

Jeremy Jacquet, the 20-year-old who has broken through impressively in Ligue 1, fits the modern blueprint for Liverpool’s long term planning. Lynch’s insight highlights the early stages of interest, noting: “He’s one that they’re keeping an eye on at the moment.” Jacquet is already earning attention from multiple major clubs across Europe thanks to his reading of the game, composure in possession and capacity to play on either side of a central pairing.

There is no suggestion that Liverpool are close to formal talks, with Lynch adding: “There’s nothing advanced and I’m not sure if it’s one that will be one that’s possible in January.” That honesty reflects where things stand, but crucially it does not cool interest inside the club. In fact, his comment that “He’s definitely on the list so definitely keep an eye on that” underlines the seriousness with which Jacquet is being monitored.

At Rennes he has displayed maturity beyond his years, something that makes Lynch’s further observation unsurprising: “Liverpool aren’t the only top club who are keeping an eye on him and that’s not surprising when you look at what he is doing at such a young age in one of the top leagues.” Competition may grow quickly, but Liverpool have moved decisively in similar situations before.

Defensive Need Growing Stronger After Recent Setbacks

The picture became clearer immediately after Leoni’s setback. Lynch summed it up simply: “Since Leoni went down with an injury, it has been clear that Liverpool could do with another defender.” Slot demands intensity and organisation from his back line, and with Konate struggling to hit the heights he reached in previous seasons, the squad feels light in a key department. Lynch echoed that sentiment by adding: “Especially when you consider Konate’s form, they could certainly do with another guy in there to help out.”

Liverpool have typically preferred summer windows for larger structural moves, but the current situation is testing their flexibility. Konate’s contract, fitness fluctuations and form issues mean the club must evaluate medium term planning at centre back sooner rather than later.

January Market Outlook and What Comes Next

The shift in tone around recruitment is notable. Lynch concluded with a point that will interest supporters tracking potential arrivals: “I would say that Liverpool look more likely to do January business now than they did at the start of the season.” That sentiment aligns with internal assessments that the champions cannot carry unnecessary risk during a season where every margin matters.

If Jacquet becomes attainable, Liverpool will be ready to move. Slot has already proven he can adapt quickly and trust youth, and Jacquet’s profile fits that philosophy neatly. Whether the deal develops in January or becomes part of the club’s longer horizon, there is no doubt that centre back has moved to the front of Liverpool’s agenda.