Inter Milan are reportedly prioritizing a move for Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones as their search for a Dumfries replacement stalls, according to reports in Italy. The Nerazzurri, led by Piero Ausilio and Cristian Chivu, are reassessing their transfer strategy after encountering difficulties in securing a suitable right-back.
Inter had initially allocated funds earmarked for a potential signing like Wilfried Singo towards bolstering the right side of defense, but are now considering diverting those resources to a midfield reinforcement. Jones has emerged as a key target, with Chivu believing the 23-year-old possesses qualities currently lacking in the Inter squad – dynamism, physicality, and a direct approach to attacking play. This is seen as a potential upgrade on existing midfielders Davide Frattesi and Kristjan Asllani, both of whom may be moved on.
Liverpool are said to be demanding a fee of €40 million for Jones, despite the player entering the final year of his contract and reportedly rejecting several potential destinations, including Nottingham Forest. Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has publicly expressed his desire to retain Jones, highlighting his importance to the team and his strong personality. However, Jones himself has reportedly given Inter assurances of his willingness to join the club since January.
The Italian side have yet to meet Liverpool’s valuation, and the move is contingent on securing approval from the club’s owners, Oaktree. The investment fund will need to authorize the expenditure, especially considering the possibility of signing Jones on a free transfer next year. Inter’s summer transfer business has so far been relatively modest, with the permanent signing of Benjamin Akanji, the repurchase of Stankovic, and the arrival of goalkeeper Provedel. The acquisition of Jones would represent a significant investment and a signal of intent.
Inter are also monitoring the availability of Ivan Perisic, a former player, as a potential fallback option. However, a return for the experienced winger is considered more likely after the summer transfer window closes. Other right-back targets, including Djed Spence, Givairo Read, Vanderson, Molina, Dodo, and Belghali, have all been deemed unsuitable for various reasons, primarily due to cost or a lack of appeal. Inter are hoping to finalize a deal for Jones and then revisit the search for a Dumfries replacement at a later date.
