Inter Milan have been pursuing a move for Liverpool‘s Curtis Jones. The two clubs can hold another meeting to possibly close a deal.
The midfielder was on the Nerazzurri’s radar in January as well. The Reds wanted to tie him down to a new deal and as this failed, a loan move to Inter never went through.
For a summer deal, the Italian champions have held a meeting with Liverpool sporting director Richard Hughes. A gap between the two clubs emerged, even if the player appears keen on a move.
This has been covered closely by Sport Witness, with Jones still not interested in renewing his Liverpool contract.
Some developments are emerging from Italy and the move is gathering pace.
Iraola arrival won’t change decision
Corriere dello Sport notes that both clubs promised to meet again soon, after their initial meeting. There is willingness to do a deal, with the second meeting scheduled for next week.
There is a €10m gap between the clubs, with Inter stuck at €20m. That is why a €25m valuation is seen as a ‘sweet spot’ which can appeal to Liverpool and Inter. It will also satisfy the player, who is very keen to join Cristian Chivu’s side.
Even if English clubs might be interested, Jones wants to ply his trade in another country altogether. Andoni Iraola’s arrival won’t change his stance, even if he can become a key player under the Spaniard.
Today’s TuttoSport are also confident the deal is going in the right direction. Inter’s initial offer for the Englishman was at €20m but Liverpool ended up demanding between €30m and €35m to sell him.
They also believe a deal can be done for €25m. But the Anfield club are keen on having a sell-on clause inserted. Without that, a move could become complicated.
Inter have somewhat opened up to the possibility but it remains to be seen what percentage they’d offer.
Frattesi exit key
In any other season, Inter would struggle to meet Liverpool’s asking price. Now, they have possible sales to conduct that can help from a financial standpoint.
Davide Frattesi is a key candidate to depart and is attracting interest from Italian clubs. He is expected to cost around €20m, which will go down well with the Nerazzurri.
That is why there is every chance Jones ends his stay at Liverpool after as many as 16 years.