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Manchester United have intensified their activity in the transfer market since INEOS took over operations at Old Trafford. The Red Devils, who endured a series of questionable recruitment decisions following Sir Alex Ferguson’s departure, appear to have regained direction under the new management.

INEOS have brought consistency and structure to United’s transfer approach. Rather than chasing marquee signings or making impulsive purchases, the club is now targeting a balance between youthful potential and experienced campaigners.

In recent windows, United secured the services of established names like Matthijs de Ligt, Noussair Mazraoui, Matheus Cunha, and Bryan Mbeumo. Alongside them, they have also added rising stars such as Leny Yoro, Ayden Heaven, Sekou Kone, Patrick Dorgu, and Diego Leon.

This renewed emphasis on nurturing youth has naturally seen United linked with a host of promising young footballers worldwide. One of those was French defender Jeremy Jacquet, who has already agreed to join Liverpool in the upcoming summer window.

United reportedly explored a move for Jacquet during the January transfer window, largely due to uncertainty over Harry Maguire’s future at the time. The English centre-back has since committed to a new contract, extending his stay with the club until at least next summer.

Despite that, defensive concerns persist. De Ligt missed the latter half of the season after undergoing back surgery, while Lisandro Martinez only returned to full fitness late last year following a long recovery from an ACL injury.

Given those circumstances, United’s decision to consider Jacquet made sense. Standing at 6’2”, the Frenchman is a technically adept, ball-playing centre-half renowned for his strength and dominance in aerial duels.

At just 20 years old, Jacquet is viewed as a player with significant room for growth. He was a regular starter for Rennes this season before a shoulder injury in February prematurely ended his campaign.

The Frenchman has now confirmed that United were among the clubs pursuing him earlier this year.

In an interview with Ouest France, Jacquet admitted he was taken aback by the flurry of transfer rumours that surfaced in January, prior to his confirmed switch to Anfield. He remarked, “Honestly, there were quite a few false rumours circulating (laughs)! My brother and I were saying to each other: ‘Where did that even come from? I never said that!’”

He continued, “It was the first time I saw my name linked with things like that on social media… But it also shows that clubs are interested in your profile. Regarding my decision, I wouldn’t say it was rushed, because I took my time to think through such a major move. But I quickly saw myself at Liverpool.”

Jacquet further clarified, “I’ve heard people say Liverpool came in at the last minute, but that’s not true. I had been in discussions with them for quite a while. There were also other clubs involved.”

When asked directly whether Manchester United were among those clubs, Jacquet responded, “For example, yes, but there were other teams too that haven’t been mentioned. It didn’t all happen within a week.”

In hindsight, United’s consideration of Jacquet was understandable, though Maguire’s contract extension in April has reduced the urgency for defensive reinforcements. Youngsters Yoro and Heaven have already displayed their potential this season and are expected to take on more responsibility in the next campaign.