Arsenal transfer shock: Dream William Saliba plan RUINED by Liverpool

Cameron Smith

8 Dec 2025 13:52 GMT
4 min read

William Saliba, Liverpool, Arsenal — © IMAGO

Liverpool have reportedly joined Arsenal and Manchester United in the race to sign Stade Rennais defender Jeremy Jacquet next year.

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The France U21 international has emerged as a key transfer target for a number of top European clubs over the past 12 months and he has been widely tipped to secure a Premier League move in 2026 amid a brewing transfer battle.

Current ETV

Jérémy Jacquet

D (CR)

Stade Rennais

Jérémy Jacquet

D (CR)

Stade Rennais

ETV Range

€14.8M - €18.1M

Jacquet was close to completing an Arsenal switch over the summer, with the 20-year-old having been identified as the Gunners’ dream long-term replacement for William Saliba, however he ultimately turned down the chance to complete a move to the Emirates Stadium.

Man Utd have now firmly registered their interest in his signature and rumours suggest that Ruben Amorim’s side could lodge a bid worth €40 million next year.

The Red Devils are expected to sign a new central defender in 2026 and they have earmarked Jacquet as a top target as they look to bolster their first-team squad with several talented youngsters.

However, Sky Sport have now revealed that Liverpool have sounded out Jacquet as their ideal candidate to replace Ibrahima Konate.

The 26-year-old is expected to leave Anfield upon the expiration of his contract next July and Liverpool have scouted Jacquet on multiple occasions so far this season, with Reds officials identifying him as a “special” player.

Jeremy Jacquet transfer update

As mentioned, Jacquet rejected the chance to join Arsenal this summer, in favour of remaining at Rennes, and the Gunners’ recent transfer business suggests he may instead opt to sign for Liverpool or Man Utd next year.

With Cristhian Mosquera and Piero Hincapie adding yet more depth to Arteta’s defensive roster this summer, Jacquet would likely find game time hard to come by at the Emirates Stadium if he completes a move next year.

As a result, Liverpool or Man Utd appear to be slightly more realistic destinations in 2026, with Arsenal therefore potentially set to miss out on their dream long-term replacement for Saliba.

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