Manchester United have stepped up their efforts in the transfer market since the arrival of INEOS. The Red Devils have made several questionable squad recruitment decisions in the post-Sir Alex Ferguson era, which have come back to haunt them.
However, INEOS have brought stability to the entire process since taking charge at Old Trafford. Under their watch, the English giants have shifted away from panic buys and superstar signings, instead focusing on the right mix of youth and experience.
United have invested in proven names such as Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, Matheus Cunha and Bryan Mbeumo in the last few transfer windows. However, they have also signed emerging talents like Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, Sekou Kone, Patrick Dorgu and Diego Leon.
The Red Devils’ youth-centric transfer policy has seen them linked with several gifted youngsters from across the world. Among them was Jeremy Jacquet, who already has an agreement in place to join Liverpool this summer.
United have defensive concerns
United’s interest in Jacquet during the winter transfer window stemmed from the uncertainty surrounding the future of Harry Maguire. The Englishman, however, has signed a new deal to extend his stay at Old Trafford until at least next summer.
However, there remain concerns about the backline, especially with De Ligt missing the second half of the campaign with a back injury that required surgery. Lisandro Martinez only returned to full fitness at the tail end of last year after a lengthy spell on the sidelines due to an ACL injury.
United, understandably, explored the option of securing Jacquet’s signature in January this year. The 6’2” Frenchman is a ball-playing central defender who is known for his physical dominance and aerial prowess.
Still only 20, Jacquet is expected to improve with age. This season, he was a first-team regular for Rennes before a shoulder injury picked up in February ruled him out for the rest of the season.
Jeremy Jacquet Stats: 2025/26 Season
| Competition | Appearances | Starts | Goals | Assists | Yellow Cards | Second Yellow | Red Cards | Minutes Played |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ligue 1 | 19 | 19 | - | - | 4 | 1 | - | 1,673' |
| Coupe de France | 2 | 2 | - | - | - | - | - | 180' |
| Total | 21 | 21 | - | - | 4 | 1 | - | 1,853' |
Source: Transfermarkt.
The Frenchman has now revealed that United were among the clubs vying for his signature earlier this year.
Jacquet confirms United wanted him
Speaking to Ouest France, Jacquet revealed that he was surprised by the numerous transfer rumours circulating in January ahead of his move to Anfield. He said: “Honestly, quite a few false rumours have been going round (laughs)! My brother and I were saying to each other: ‘Where on earth did that come from? I never said that!’”
“It was the first time I’d seen my name linked to things like that on social media… But anyway, it means clubs are interested in your profile. As for my decision, I wouldn’t say it was made quickly, because I took my time over this big step. But I quickly saw myself at Liverpool.”
“I’ve heard people say they (Liverpool) came in at the last minute, but that’s not true. I’d been in talks with them for quite some time. There were other clubs involved as well.”
When asked if United were among his suitors, Jacquet replied: “For example, but there were other clubs too that haven’t been mentioned. It didn’t all happen in the space of a week.”
Final Thoughts
United were right to consider a move for Jacquet, although Maguire signing a new contract in April means that a new defender is no longer a priority. Yoro and Heaven have already shown promise this season and they will also be expected to step up next campaign.
Featured image Michael Regan via Getty Images
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