Liverpool’s new signing Jeremy Jacquet has admitted the pressure surrounding his big-money move to Anfield is already driving him to prove himself after agreeing a high-profile transfer from Stade Rennais.
The 20-year-old defender completed a switch to Liverpool in a deal worth an initial £55 million, with a further £5 million in potential add-ons, making him one of the club’s biggest investments ahead of the new season.
Jacquet officially agreed the move in February, with Liverpool moving quickly to secure one of Europe’s most highly-rated young defenders before competition for his signature intensified further during the summer transfer window.
The French centre-back attracted interest from several top clubs across Europe, including Chelsea F.C. and Manchester United F.C., but ultimately chose Liverpool F.C. after being convinced by the club’s long-term sporting project.
Speaking to French outlet Ouest-France, Jacquet admitted he is fully aware of the expectations that come with such a significant transfer fee, especially at a club of Liverpool’s stature.
“Promising young players command quite high prices and of course, that adds pressure: am I worth that price or not? I think I have the minimum resources to go there. I’m going there to play as much as possible.”
Despite the intense spotlight now surrounding him, the young defender insisted his decision was based primarily on footballing reasons rather than financial considerations.
“For me, there’s the sporting project and the personal project. At my age, I prioritise the sporting side. I’m focused on football.”
One of the key factors behind Jacquet’s decision was the opportunity to work alongside Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, whom he described as a major influence in his choice to move to Merseyside.
The Frenchman believes training regularly with one of the world’s most accomplished defenders could accelerate his own development significantly.
“At Chelsea, I felt there were quite a lot of people (in his position). Whereas at Liverpool, apart from the fact that Virgil van Dijk is nearing the end of his career, training with him is going to be huge.”
Jacquet also pointed to fellow French defender Ibrahima Konaté as another important presence who could help him adapt quickly both on and off the pitch.
“He’s going to teach me so much. There’s also Ibou Konate, who can help me settle in. Training with guys like that, it doesn’t get any better than that.”
Liverpool view Jacquet as a major part of their long-term defensive rebuild as the club gradually prepares for the future beyond Van Dijk’s peak years.
The young defender is expected to report for pre-season training in July after recovering from shoulder surgery and completing rehabilitation work during the off-season.
Jacquet will join another highly-rated young defender, Giovanni Leoni, as Liverpool continue reshaping their back line under their evolving long-term strategy.
For the player himself, however, the challenge is now clear — justify the enormous transfer fee, handle the pressure that comes with it, and establish himself at one of Europe’s biggest clubs before turning 21.
