The summer transfer window is heating up, and a standoff is brewing between Liverpool and Inter over the future of Curtis Jones. The Reds are reportedly growing 'increasingly frustrated' with the Italian club's persistent attempts to drive down the asking price for the homegrown midfielder, with the latest €25 million (£21 million) bid swiftly dismissed.
"Jones is a player we've been paying attention to for some time. We tried to negotiate in January and we will try again. If we find a common ground, great. Otherwise, we will do something else."
— Piero Ausilio, Inter sporting director
Quick Facts
Player: Curtis Jones
Age: 25
Current club: Liverpool
Interested club: Inter
Latest bid: €25m (£21m)
Contract status: Enters final year in 2026/27
Liverpool's stance: Not for sale at current valuation
Inter's determination and Liverpool's defiance
The Nerazzurri have identified Jones as a prime target to bolster their midfield for the 2026-27 campaign, a move that would add Premier League-proven energy and technical quality to Simone Inzaghi's squad. But Liverpool's hierarchy see the 25-year-old as a valuable first-team asset, one they have nurtured through the academy since the age of nine.
According to The Times, senior figures at Anfield are irritated by what they perceive as a lowball tactic designed to exploit Jones's contractual situation. With the player entering the final 12 months of his deal this summer, Inter believe they hold leverage, but Liverpool are in no mood to be bullied into a cut-price sale.
Why Inter want Jones
Italian champions Inter are planning for the future, and Jones fits the profile of midfielder they covet: dynamic, press-resistant, and versatile enough to play in multiple roles. His homegrown status would also help with squad registration rules in Serie A. Despite interest from other Premier League clubs, Jones is reportedly open to the idea of a move abroad, with San Siro a tempting destination.
Liverpool's midfield conundrum
Liverpool, however, are reluctant to lose a player who made 34 appearances in the Premier League last season, scoring five goals. With a new manager at the helm and a potential squad rebuild on the cards, offloading an academy graduate who understands the club's ethos would send the wrong message. The Reds have already invested in younger midfield options, but Jones's experience and connection to the fanbase make him more than just a squad number.
Key Takeaways
- Liverpool are increasingly frustrated with Inter's attempts to lower Curtis Jones's valuation.
- Inter's latest offer of €25m has been rejected, with Liverpool holding out for significantly more.
- Jones is entering the final year of his contract, which Inter hoped to exploit, but Liverpool remain firm.
- The midfielder is open to a Serie A move, but a deal is currently far from agreed.
- This transfer saga could drag on through the summer, with both clubs dug in.
