Liverpool have knocked back Inter Milan's second approach for Curtis Jones, turning down an improved bid of £30 million that still fell short of what the club consider fair value. Anfield's hierarchy wants at least £35 million for the academy graduate, and they are showing no intention of budging — even as the player himself continues to eye a move to Italy.
Inter Milan manager Cristian Chivu has made Jones one of his primary transfer targets this summer. The Italian side initially came in with a £21 million offer, which Liverpool swatted away without hesitation. The follow-up bid of £30 million was rejected just as firmly, with the club insisting it falls "considerably short" of their valuation.
A Complicated Situation at Anfield
Jones is entering the final year of his contract and has reportedly refused to sign an extension, making his future at Liverpool increasingly uncertain. The 24-year-old is said to be drawn to the prospect of experiencing football in Italy, and Inter's manager has been personally vocal about his desire to bring the Englishman to the San Siro.
But the subplot here is genuinely strange. Liverpool are simultaneously weighing up a shock contract offer for Jones — a U-turn from a position they appeared settled on just weeks ago. The change of heart was triggered in part by a heated on-pitch argument Jones had with Dominik Szoboszlai during a training session, which the club reportedly took as a sign of his competitive drive and commitment rather than a disciplinary issue.
The Monaco Friendly Absence
Jones was notably absent from Liverpool's friendly against AS Monaco at Anfield, with the club citing "injury precautions." Given the timing and the ongoing transfer noise, it is difficult to take that explanation entirely at face value. Whether the decision was to protect his value, manage his fitness ahead of a potential sale, or simply keep him fresh while negotiations play out, is unclear.
What is clear is that Liverpool will not be pressured into selling cheaply. If Inter cannot find another £5–10 million from somewhere, they may need to wait until next summer — at which point Jones could technically walk for free. That possibility does not appear to be softening Liverpool's stance, which suggests the club still believe a contract renewal is achievable if the right offer is put to the player.
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