BBC:Liverpool have officially confirmed the signing of centre-back Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes. The 20-year-old France Under-21 international joins the club on a five-year deal, with the transfer fee reaching £55 million, plus up to £5 million in potential add-ons.

The deal was originally agreed upon in January. Shortly after the agreement, Jacquet suffered a shoulder injury, but he has since successfully completed his rehabilitation programme and is currently undergoing individual fitness work. He is expected to be available for the start of pre-season training.

“For me, it’s a big dream. It’s a big club,” said Jacquet. “I am very happy. When I see the facilities, I can see myself there. I feel good here and I am very excited to get started.”

Jacquet, who rose through the Rennes academy and made 33 appearances in Ligue 1, joins a revamped defensive lineup under new head coach Andoni Iraola. He will compete for a centre-half spot alongside club captain Virgil van Dijk, Joe Gomez, and fellow recruit Giovanni Leoni.

The move follows the departure of Ibrahima Konate, who joined Real Madrid earlier this summer upon the expiration of his contract.

Meanwhile, Liverpool fans are also awaiting the return of 19-year-old Italian defender Giovanni Leoni. Leoni’s debut season at Anfield was cut short by an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury, and he is currently continuing his fitness and rehabilitation work.

Liverpool players are scheduled to return for pre-season training on July 14, before departing for their pre-season tour of the United States on July 20.