Inter Milan are finding negotiations for Liverpool’s Curtis Jones challenging, according to Inter’s sporting director Piero Ausilio. The Serie A club have seen previous targets, including Khéphren Thuram and Elkan Baggott, move elsewhere, leaving Jones as one of the remaining options for coach Cristian Chivu to reinforce the midfield.
Ausilio acknowledged Inter’s interest in Jones but highlighted a significant gap in valuation between the two clubs. Inter have reportedly offered €25 million for the 22-year-old, while Liverpool are holding firm at €40 million, believing they are within their rights to demand a fee reflecting Jones’s value and avoiding a situation where he could leave on a free transfer next summer. The club’s new ownership structure, with Oaktree now in control, is reportedly contributing to a more cautious approach to spending, requiring multiple levels of approval for transfers.
Jones has been a regular in Liverpool’s squad, featuring prominently under Jurgen Klopp, though injuries have impacted his consistency. He made 36 appearances across all competitions last season, contributing with goals and assists. Inter are hoping Jones’s desire to move to Italy will help bridge the valuation gap, and the player is currently not considering an alternative offer from Nottingham Forest, who are also seeking midfield reinforcements following the departure of Elliot Anderson.
Inter have successfully retained their key players, with only Denzel Dumfries departing due to a release clause in his contract activated upon renewal. The club’s ability to maintain a competitive squad despite financial constraints is being credited to both the technical staff and the ownership. While the pursuit of Jones remains difficult, Inter are confident they have sufficient midfield depth with the additions of Kristjan Stankovic and Giovanni Massolin, and are prepared to wait until late in the transfer window to see if a deal can be reached.
