The summer transfer window is heating up, and Arsenal have reportedly emerged as surprise admirers of Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones, adding another layer of intrigue to one of the most talked-about transfer sagas of the season.
Jones was one of the more versatile and dependable figures in Arne Slot’s squad, making 49 appearances across all competitions last season and chipping in with three goals and three assists.
He also filled in at right back on multiple occasions following injuries to Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley, underlining his importance to the team when needed.
Yet despite that, a guaranteed starting spot in central midfield has remained elusive for the 25-year-old, and that frustration is now threatening to bring his Anfield journey to an end.
Italian newspaper Gazzetta dello Sport reported in June that Jones has already said yes to a move to Inter Milan, with sources suggesting the England international considers his Liverpool career to be over.
The Serie A champions had been tracking Jones since the January window, and Inter sporting director Piero Ausilio has spoken publicly about the club’s interest.
However, Liverpool have rejected two bids from Inter, worth £18 million and £21 million respectively, with the Reds holding firm at a £35 million valuation despite Jones entering the final year of his contract.
It is against that backdrop that a new and unexpected name has entered the conversation.
According to TEAMtalk, citing the Daily Mail’s Merseyside correspondent Lewis Steele, Arsenal are fans of Curtis Jones and could look to explore a transfer move.
Steele made the revelation during an appearance on Anfield Index, and the report was quickly picked up by several outlets including Just Arsenal and CaughtOffside, the latter noting that Tottenham Hotspur have also been credited with interest.
Arsenal’s reported admiration for Jones makes tactical sense in some respects.
The midfielder’s ability to play across multiple positions and his Premier League pedigree would offer Mikel Arteta real squad depth.
Just Arsenal, however, were quick to point out that no official approach has been made and that the Gunners are not currently planning one.
The outlet also flagged the obvious complication of a deal between two direct title rivals, with Liverpool unlikely to want to strengthen a club competing for the same honours.
There is also the question of whether Arsenal can offer Jones what he is truly looking for.
Having spent years competing for minutes at Anfield, the Scouser will want assurances of regular central midfield football, something that would be far from guaranteed at the Emirates Stadium.
For now, Inter Milan remain the frontrunners, but with the gap between their bids and Liverpool’s valuation yet to be bridged, Arsenal could yet find an opening worth pursuing.