Inter Milan are facing significant obstacles in their pursuit of Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones, with the English club reportedly demanding a fee in the region of €40 million for a permanent transfer. The figure is similar to what was discussed during a potential loan with option to buy in January, when Inter identified Jones as a potential replacement for Davide Frattesi.
Inter’s sporting director, Piero Ausilio, recently acknowledged the gap between Inter’s offer and Liverpool’s valuation, offering a wry response when questioned about the difference. Ausilio met with Liverpool’s sporting director, Jörg Schmadtke, in Monte Carlo on May 26th to discuss the possibility of a deal, and understands the club’s continued high valuation of the player despite his contract expiring in 2027.
While Jones remains Inter’s primary target in midfield, the club is also exploring alternative options. They have enquired about Atalanta’s Marco Palestra, but the Italian club is seeking a reported €55 million for the player. Inter are hesitant to exceed a certain spending limit, particularly given Oaktree’s ownership, making a deal for Palestra challenging.
Another player under consideration is Arthur Atta of Udinese, a 23-year-old French midfielder who impressed in Serie A last season. Inter inquired about Atta during discussions with Udinese regarding defender Lazar Solet. However, Udinese are also demanding a substantial fee, exceeding €40 million, a price tag that previously deterred Napoli. Additionally, Inter have revisited the name of Manu Koné, currently at Roma, though the Giallorossi value him at approximately €50 million.
Inter are also monitoring Dan Ndoye, a 25-year-old winger currently at Nottingham Forest, as a potential alternative to Palestra. Ndoye, a former Bologna player, cost Nottingham Forest €42 million but has not secured a consistent starting role. Inter believe they could convert Ndoye into a wing-back, a position he has occasionally occupied for the Swiss national team. Despite exploring these alternatives, Inter remain committed to securing Jones, hoping to reach an agreement with Liverpool through a revised offer of around €25 million plus a percentage of any future sale.
