Liverpool blocked Curtis Jones' proposed move to Inter Milan on transfer deadline day, which resulted in Nottingham Forest's deal for Davide Frattesi collapsing
Curtis Jones during as Liverpool training session
Liverpool dismissed Inter Milan's approach for midfielder Curtis Jones(Image: Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
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Liverpool have reportedly thrown a spanner in the works for Nottingham Forest's pursuit of Davide Frattesi by preventing Curtis Jones from departing, according to reports.
The Reds' homegrown talent had attracted attention from Italy, with Inter Milan keen on securing the 25-year-old's services before Liverpool blocked advances.
Reports suggest that Jones' potential switch to the San Siro was crucial in facilitating Frattesi's proposed transfer to the Premier League, with Sean Dyche's squad eager to bring him in. The Italy international was said to be keen on the move, but Inter would only approve his departure if Liverpool agreed to release Jones.
However, the Premier League champions have halted any progress in discussions, the ECHO understands.
Jones, who celebrated his 25th birthday on Friday, has fewer than 18 months left on his Anfield deal, and reports, particularly from Di Marzio, suggest Liverpool are keen to tie him down to fresh terms before sanctioning any loan departure with an option to buy.
Claims have emerged that the midfielder doesn't believe he features in the Dutchman's long-term vision at Anfield and is hoping to complete a transfer to Milan. Jones saw just six minutes of action during Saturday's crucial 4-1 triumph over Newcastle United, returning to the fold after sitting out the 6-0 demolition of Qarabag through illness.
Though there were no signs of an Anfield farewell as Jones exchanged friendly words with England colleague Anthony Gordon before disappearing down the tunnel following Saturday's final whistle.
Curtis Jones
Curtis Jones was the subject of interest from Inter Milan.(Image: Getty Images)
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When questioned about Jones potentially leaving, Slot said: "I think there's always lots of talks about Liverpool and lots of talks about the Liverpool players.
"There was a lot of noise around the club the last week, maybe I should say weeks. I think our fans showed today what noise really means, that's being loud because they were so helpful today.
"So that is what what noise here is in Liverpool.
"I think we are trying to strengthen the squad and not trying to weaken it. But yeah, 48 hours or something, I don't know how long to go.
"So let's see where the window ends up."
Fabrizio Romano revealed on Sunday that Frattesi will remain in Italy, with the Forest move only being explored following the collapse of Jones' departure.
Forest had been close to securing the Italian on loan with a purchase option included in the agreement.
The 26-year-old has been limited to a bit-part role under manager Cristian Chivu this campaign, despite Inter Milan commanding an eight-point advantage at the summit of Serie A.
Frattesi has managed only 12 league outings but did play for 60 minutes in their 2-0 victory over Cremonese.
Inter president Beppe Marotta commented: "As we have always said, we don't want to hold back any player who wants to go elsewhere.
"Frattesi has never expressed the desire to leave, of course everyone wants more playing time, but he will have the chance during the season to show what he can do."