Liverpool Scrambles as Star Midfielder Demands Exit in Final Transfer Window Days—Report
Liverpool are engaged in discussions with Inter Milan regarding a potential departure for midfielder Curtis Jones, according to recent reports, with the homegrown talent reportedly eager for a move away.
Inter's midfielder Davide Frattesi has attracted attention from Nottingham Forest, and multiple sources, including Gianluca Di Marzio, indicate that Jones has emerged as Inter's top target for replacement. Negotiations center around a loan arrangement with a purchase option valued at €40 million (£34.7 million, $47.6 million).
Jones is reportedly enthusiastic about the potential switch, with Gazzetta dello Sport claiming the 25-year-old has explicitly requested to depart Liverpool during this transfer window. The Merseyside club, however, remains unconvinced about sanctioning the move.
Could Curtis Jones Leave Liverpool?
Could Curtis Jones Leave Liverpool?
Jones remains a well-regarded figure at Liverpool and has maintained a significant presence under Arne Slot's management. He has featured in 29 matches across all competitions this campaign, with 17 of those being starting appearances, making his desire for an exit somewhat puzzling.
Considering his value to Slot's limited squad depth, Liverpool's hesitation to part with Jones is understandable. The Daily Mail reports that Liverpool are unwilling to lose such an important player, while James Pearce from The Athletic dismissed the speculation as "nonsense." Nevertheless, the rumors continue to circulate.
Fabrizio Romano confirms that Liverpool and Inter have engaged in direct negotiations regarding Jones, whose situation remains linked to Frattesi's potential move amid Inter's ongoing talks with Forest.
Allowing Jones to depart at this advanced stage of the transfer window would represent a significant gamble for Liverpool, especially given Slot's tactical adjustments that emphasize central midfield roles. Jones has been in the starting lineup for seven of the past nine Premier League matches, highlighting his value to Slot's system.
Jones's importance may become even more pronounced following Jeremie Frimpong's recent injury setback. The right-back faces several weeks of recovery, and with squad resources already stretched, midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai may need to fill in out of position, potentially creating additional opportunities for Jones.
Nevertheless, reports indicate that Liverpool might attempt to leverage Inter's pursuit of Jones for their own benefit.
Talks Held Over Denzel Dumfries
Talks Held Over Denzel Dumfries
Frimpong's injury, combined with Conor Bradley's fitness issues, has left Liverpool without a recognized right-back option. Initially, the club wasn't anticipated to seek a replacement.
However, according to Di Marzio, Liverpool have utilized their conversations with Inter to inquire about Netherlands international Denzel Dumfries.
This was promptly confirmed by Romano, who reported that Liverpool investigated both the financial requirements and Dumfries's current injury status. The Dutch defender is dealing with an ankle issue but is anticipated to return within the coming weeks.
Due to Dumfries's fitness concerns, Liverpool are reportedly considering a loan arrangement, though Inter have clearly stated their reluctance to release the 29-year-old on a temporary basis, insisting that any agreement would need to be permanent. Currently, discussions have not advanced beyond this point.
Dumfries possesses a release clause valued at approximately €25 million in his contract, but importantly, this clause won't be activated until the summer transfer window.