Liverpool fans were left surprised during the winter transfer window when it emerged that the club listened to offers for Curtis Jones.
First it was disclosed by trusted sources that Tottenham were eyeing a deal for the 25-year-old midfielder. But the most serious interest came from Inter in Serie A – with the Italian giants seeking a loan deal leading to a purchase option.
Advertisement
The Premier League champions ultimately refused to sanction a departure for Jones – although Italian sources maintain that it was the Reds who made the first contact.
There is clearly an issue to be solved over Jones’ contract – which expires in 2027 – and the uncertainty means the playmaker is at risk of being sold.
Curtis Jones’ contract extends to 2027
Jones last signed a new deal back in 2022 when he was still very much a squad player under Jurgen Klopp. Since then he has developed into an integral part of Arne Slot’s system – playing close to 50 matches last season.
LFC x adidas
Shop the away range TODAY
Advertisement
LFC x adidas
Shop the home range today!
LFC x adidas
Shop the goalkeeper range today
LFC x adidas Third Kit
Shop the third kit range today!
He is still not starting as many matches as he would like however according to a report from James Pearce in the Athletic. His desire for more regular starts is a sticking point and without those guarantees then he may end up leaving.
Furthermore Jones is not one of Liverpool’s better-paid midfielders with the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai and Ryan Gravenberch all thought to be making a lot more.
If Richard Hughes is unable to come to terms with Jones over a new deal on his anticipated wages then Liverpool will be left with no choice but to sell.
Advertisement
LFC won’t lose Jones for free warns Pearce
“Liverpool dismissed interest in Jones from Inter of Italy before Monday’s transfer deadline — weakening an already depleted squad was unthinkable,” the report reads.
“But with only 18 months left on his contract, the academy graduate’s future will remain a topic of debate.
“Jones is desperate to be a regular starter but 11 of his 21 Premier League outings this season have been off the bench.”
Pearce goes on to state that the next few months are going to be crucial in tying up a renewal for the two-time Premier League winner.
The situation could come to a head in next summer’s transfer window – when Jones will only have one year left on his deal.
Advertisement
It will be Liverpool’s last chance to earn some money on their academy graduate with the club having no intention of losing him on a free in 2027.
“If he doesn’t sign an extension before the summer, all parties will need to consider their options,” he writes. “Liverpool won’t want to risk losing him for nothing after next season.”
© IMAGO – Curtis Jones Liverpool
Read the full article here
