Liverpool’s plans for new signing Jeremy Jacquet have been dealt an early blow after the young defender picked up a serious shoulder injury while playing for Stade Rennais at the weekend.

The 20-year-old, who agreed a £60 million move to Anfield during the January transfer window, was forced off during Rennes’ 3–1 Ligue 1 defeat to RC Lens after landing awkwardly in the second half. The incident occurred in the 69th minute, with Jacquet immediately signalling to the bench before leaving the pitch in visible discomfort.

According to reports in France, the injury is more severe than first feared and could require surgical intervention. If that proves to be the case, Jacquet’s season in Ligue 1 would likely be over, potentially marking his final appearance for Rennes before his scheduled switch to Liverpool on July 1.

Surgery likely as Rennes confirm seriousness

Rennes head coach Habib Beye later acknowledged the gravity of the situation, describing the injury as “serious.” While there was initial optimism that rest and rehabilitation might be enough, further medical checks have reportedly pointed towards surgery as the safest option to ensure a full recovery.

A lengthy spell on the sidelines would be a cruel setback for Jacquet, who had hoped to end his time with his boyhood club on a positive note before beginning the next chapter of his career in England.

Liverpool monitoring situation closely

Liverpool are understood to be in regular contact with Rennes as they track the defender’s progress. Although the injury does not threaten the transfer itself, it does complicate Arne Slot’s defensive planning ahead of next season.

The Reds have already struggled with defensive absences this campaign, including long-term issues affecting Giovanni Leoni and Conor Bradley. As a result, the club is expected to take a careful and patient approach with Jacquet’s rehabilitation.

Rather than rushing his return, Liverpool’s priority will be ensuring the Frenchman is fully fit ahead of pre-season preparations for the 2026/27 campaign.

Still central to Liverpool’s long-term plans

Despite this setback, Jacquet remains a key part of Liverpool’s future vision at the back. With uncertainty surrounding Ibrahima Konaté’s long-term future and Virgil van Dijk moving deeper into his thirties, the young centre-back is still viewed as a cornerstone of the club’s defensive rebuild.

For now, all eyes will be on his recovery — with Liverpool hopeful that this injury proves to be nothing more than a temporary hurdle in what they expect to be a long Anfield career.