Curtis Jones’ future at Liverpool continues to attract attention, but the club have once again made their position perfectly clear.
According to Ben Jacobs, Inter Milan have made a fresh approach through intermediaries in an attempt to sign the Liverpool midfielder.
A fee in the region of €32 million was reportedly discussed.
Liverpool’s response?
Rejected immediately.
The Reds are understood to value Jones at more than €40 million, and unless that valuation is met, the academy graduate is expected to remain at Anfield.
Liverpool Still Believe in Jones
Despite constant transfer speculation throughout the summer, Liverpool clearly continue to place significant value on Curtis Jones.
The 24-year-old remains one of the club’s most technically gifted midfielders and, perhaps just as importantly, fulfils the Premier League’s homegrown requirements.
Players with his experience, versatility and connection to the club are not easy to replace.
That undoubtedly influences Liverpool’s asking price.
Iraola Wants to Assess Him
The timing is also important.
Andoni Iraola has repeatedly spoken about wanting to assess every player during pre-season before making major decisions.
Jones has reportedly impressed with his attitude since returning for training, and the new head coach is believed to be keen to give him opportunities before any decision is made regarding his future.
That alone makes a summer departure far from certain.
Why Inter Are Interested
Inter’s admiration is understandable.
Jones offers:
● Premier League experience.
● Excellent technical quality.
● Positional versatility.
● Ball-carrying ability.
● Strong work rate.
He is capable of playing as a number eight, deeper midfielder or in a more advanced role.
For a club competing in Serie A and the Champions League, that flexibility is extremely attractive.
Is €32 Million Enough?
From Liverpool’s perspective, the answer appears to be no.
Many supporters would probably agree.
The transfer market continues to inflate rapidly, and experienced homegrown players command significant premiums.
Given Jones’ age and ability, Liverpool clearly believe his value exceeds Inter’s current proposal.
Whether another offer arrives remains to be seen.
A Big Decision Ahead
Jones’ situation remains one of the most interesting storylines of Liverpool’s summer.
The midfielder has spent his entire career at Anfield and has repeatedly spoken about his desire to succeed with his boyhood club.
However, regular first-team football will also be an important consideration at this stage of his career.
Much may depend on how prominent a role Iraola sees for him over the coming weeks.
Liverpool Hold the Cards
For now, Liverpool remain in a strong negotiating position.
There is no pressure to sell.
Inter’s initial approach has been dismissed.
And unless a club is prepared to meet Liverpool’s valuation of €40 million or more, Curtis Jones looks set to remain part of Andoni Iraola’s plans for the new season.
The message from Anfield is clear.
If someone wants one of Liverpool’s own, they will have to pay accordingly.
Source: @JacobsBen
Jamie (The Kopite View)
Related