Manchester United Target Ligue 1 Star Jeremy Jacquet as Ruben Amorim Eyes Harry Maguire Replacement

As Manchester United continues their squad overhaul under manager Ruben Amorim, the club has reportedly set its sights on Rennes’ highly-rated young centre-back, Jeremy Jacquet. With Harry Maguire’s future at Old Trafford uncertain, Amorim is said to be eyeing the 20-year-old French defender as a potential long-term replacement.

While United will be looking to bounce back from a disappointing defeat to a 10-man Everton side when they face Crystal Palace on Sunday, behind the scenes, the club’s recruitment team is working tirelessly to identify new transfer targets. Jacquet, who has been one of the standout performers in Ligue 1 this season, has quickly become a key name on their radar.

Jeremy Jacquet: A Rising Star in French Football

Jeremy Jacquet has quickly established himself as one of the brightest young talents in France. The Rennes centre-back has been a fixture in the starting XI, playing every minute of their 13 Ligue 1 games this season. His impressive performances have earned him rave reviews, with United’s scouts reportedly keeping close tabs on his development.

In addition to Manchester United, Jacquet has also attracted interest from Premier League rivals Arsenal, which speaks volumes about his potential. The 20-year-old is known for his composed defending, excellent positioning, and ability to read the game, making him an ideal candidate to strengthen United’s back line.

A £35 Million Deal in the Works?

According to journalist Mark Brus, a bid of £35 million would be enough to secure Jacquet’s signature from Rennes. The report suggests that United have shown a willingness to match this price tag, with negotiations potentially set to take place either in the January transfer window or next summer.

While it’s unclear exactly when United will make a move for the French defender, Jacquet’s links to the Premier League appear to be growing stronger. With Maguire’s contract expiring at the end of the season and no clear future beyond this year, the club is proactively looking for a long-term solution in central defence.

Maguire’s Future and United’s Defensive Priorities

Maguire, 32, is likely to be offered a contract extension at a reduced salary, but United knows that it’s time to plan for the future without him. The club’s current centre-back options have been plagued by inconsistency and injury issues. Lisandro Martinez has been sidelined for a significant period due to injury, Matthijs de Ligt has been inconsistent, and Leny Yoro has struggled with fitness.

Despite these defensive concerns, however, strengthening the midfield appears to be the club’s top priority for the upcoming January window. Amorim is reportedly keen to add reinforcements in the middle of the park before turning his attention to defensive options in the summer. United has been linked with several midfield targets, including Crystal Palace’s Adam Wharton, Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, and Nottingham Forest’s Elliot Anderson.

Midfield Reinforcements Before Defensive Investments

Sources close to Old Trafford suggest that United will focus on bolstering their midfield first, with a winter transfer likely to bring in a new midfielder to help with the team’s balance and depth. Big-money moves for players like Wharton or Baleba are expected to be out of reach in January, meaning United may look for a temporary solution or a more affordable signing.

One player who has been linked with a move to the club is Atalanta’s Ederson, who could provide a stop-gap option in midfield while the club continues to target their top long-term goals.

Given the current priorities, it seems unlikely that United will move forward with a £35 million deal for Jacquet in January, especially when the focus is expected to be on reinforcing the midfield. However, with his impressive form and potential, it’s only a matter of time before the 20-year-old defender makes his mark in one of Europe’s top leagues.

A Promising Future for Jeremy Jacquet?

Despite the current focus on midfield reinforcements, Jacquet’s links to Manchester United reflect the club’s ambition to build a squad capable of competing at the highest level. The youngster’s promising talent and potential fit within the team make him a player to watch closely as United’s recruitment strategy unfolds over the next few months.

With the January transfer window fast approaching, Manchester United’s pursuit of Jacquet may well intensify as they look to build for the future.