Liverpool may have found something special in Jérémy Jacquet, and the young French defender is already giving supporters reasons to believe he could eventually become more than just a replacement for Ibrahima Konaté.
At just 21, Jacquet is showing a level of composure that is unusual for a defender still adapting to life at Anfield. His calmness in possession, anticipation and willingness to play progressive passes have quickly become some of the most noticeable aspects of his game.
Liverpool clearly saw the potential long before he arrived. The Reds agreed a deal with Rennes in February before officially completing his move in July, with the defender signing a long-term contract.
What makes the situation particularly intriguing is the timing.
Konaté has departed Liverpool, leaving a major opening alongside Virgil van Dijk. Jacquet was originally expected to develop behind the established defensive partnership, but Konaté’s exit has suddenly accelerated the Frenchman’s path into serious first-team consideration. Sky Sports reported that Liverpool invested around £60 million in Jacquet and now see him as a player who could step into the role vacated by Konaté.
And the early signs have been encouraging.
Jacquet impressed during his first appearance for Liverpool and even scored in the 2-0 pre-season victory over Como. His debut performances were enough to earn positive attention from Van Dijk, who is now set to share the heart of Liverpool’s defence with one of the club’s new recruits.
There is also an exciting statistical foundation behind the hype.
Opta Analyst highlighted Jacquet’s ability to anticipate danger, win possession and dominate aerially. During his time in Ligue 1, he recorded a 75.5 per cent aerial-duel success rate among players meeting the required sample, while his aggressive front-foot defending stood out as another major strength.
But perhaps the most exciting part is his relationship with Van Dijk.
Jacquet has openly spoken about studying the Liverpool captain throughout his development. Now, instead of watching Van Dijk from afar, he gets the opportunity to train alongside him every day and learn directly from one of the greatest defenders of his generation.
That could be enormous for his development.
Van Dijk can provide the experience, positioning and leadership, while Jacquet brings youthful aggression, mobility and progressive passing. If those qualities click, Liverpool could potentially build a very different kind of defensive partnership.
Of course, declaring Jacquet an outright upgrade on Konaté after such a small sample would be premature. Friendly performances and early appearances cannot erase the years of Premier League experience Konaté accumulated at Anfield.
But Liverpool supporters are allowed to dream.
Jacquet has the age, talent, mentality and technical profile to become a major player for the Reds. If Iraola gives him consistent opportunities alongside Van Dijk, the Frenchman could develop rapidly.
Liverpool may not simply have found Konaté’s replacement.
They may have found their next defensive star.