Key Highlights
- Liverpool are prepared to offer Curtis Jones a new contract if he remains at Anfield beyond the summer transfer window.
- Inter Milan continue to admire Jones, but Liverpool are holding firm on their valuation and want a formal offer before negotiations begin.
- The Reds remain focused on Jones' long-term future, viewing the academy graduate as an important part of their plans despite recent speculation.
- A decision is expected before the new season, with Liverpool prioritizing either a contract extension or a transfer that meets their asking price.
Anfield's Unfolding Midfield Dilemma
Despite a highly publicized pre-season disagreement with Dominik Szoboszlai, Liverpool is surprisingly open to extending Curtis Jones' contract. The tension arose during a friendly against Wrexham, where Jones was visibly upset when Szoboszlai handed the captain's armband to Kostas Tsimikas. This incident required intervention from both Tsimikas and Jeremie Frimpong.
Journalist Ben Jacobs of talkSPORT confirmed Liverpool's stance, noting that if Jones remains at Anfield past the transfer window, a new deal is on the table. With less than a year left on his current contract, securing Jones' long-term future is crucial for Liverpool to avoid losing a valuable asset on a free transfer.
Inter Milan's Persistent Pursuit
Inter Milan has made repeated attempts to lure Curtis Jones to Italy, but Liverpool has remained steadfast on their valuation. Jacobs detailed that Inter's previous "offers" were in the region of €25million, €32million, and most recently, €35million (approximately £29m). However, Liverpool doesn't consider these to be formal bids and demands a minimum of €40m, with some sources even suggesting €50m in today's inflated market.
Adding another layer to this saga, Jones himself would reportedly welcome a move to the Italian giants. This desire creates a fascinating dynamic, pitting the player's potential interest against his current club's firm valuation and long-term plans.
The Reds Demand Direct Dialogue
Growing increasingly frustrated with informal discussions and intermediaries, Liverpool's hierarchy expects a concrete proposal if Inter Milan is serious about acquiring Jones. The message from Anfield is clear: direct communication is essential. Jacobs highlighted the club's position, stating that Inter needs to "knock on our front door, make us a formal offer and then you might find a financial compromise," drawing parallels to the Bruno Guimaraes situation between Newcastle and Arsenal.
The Road Ahead: Contract or Departure?
As the pre-season schedule progresses through August, Liverpool will closely monitor Jones' performance and attitude. Should Inter Milan fail to submit an official bid that meets Liverpool's valuation, the club will swiftly pivot to comprehensive contract extension talks. Resolving Jones' future before the competitive campaign begins is a top priority to ensure absolute squad harmony, especially following the controversial on-pitch disagreement with Szoboszlai.
