A European club chief has now confirmed his interest in signing one of Andoni Iraola's Liverpool stars, putting the Reds on high-alert this summer.
Club chief publicly sets sights on Liverpool star
12 months ago, Liverpool were celebrating their Premier League title and wondering where else to put the rest of their trophies to come under Arne Slot. It's why his departure is such a shock one year on following a tough second season in the technical area.
The Dutchman lost the dressing room and the fans, leaving those at Anfield with little choice but to bring his tenure to an unexpected end. In his place is Iraola. The former Bournemouth boss, who operates with the intensity that Liverpool have been crying out for, officially arrived earlier this week.
Iraola has already addressed the fans and won many over with some of his words, telling the club's official website: "It matters a lot to everyone. Football is about emotion and I understand it’s a privilege and a big responsibility as those people want to be represented properly."
His arrival should provide many players with a new lease of life at Anfield, but that may not be enough to keep hold of Curtis Jones in the coming months.
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The Reds still face stiff competition.
Inter Milan director Piero Ausilio has publicly confirmed his interest in Jones and that he will be awaiting "developments" over a move for the midfielder.
He told reporters: “It’s no secret we’re following Curtis Jones. He’s a player we like, we’re not hiding. We will see the developments."
Jones should stay put at Liverpool with Iraola
It became fairly clear over the last two years that Slot wasn't Jones' biggest fan. Even when Liverpool's midfield were struggling last season, the academy graduate was often forced to fill in at right-back.
It sparked concerns that Inter could swoop in during the January transfer window, only for Liverpool to fend off any interest.
Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones
They may not be so lucky this time around, but Jones should welcome the arrival of Iraola with open arms. The former Bournemouth boss valued ball progressors so highly on the South Coast. It's why the likes of Alex Scott thrived and why Jones can follow suit if he just stays put at Anfield.
It speaks volumes that, even as a squad player, the midfielder earned such high praise from Slot. When the Dutchman first arrived, he told reporters: "In pre-season, I thought he was outstanding and he is outstanding again now."
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