Curtis Jones faces Liverpool contract dilemma as Inter Milan watch closely

Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones must decide on his future this summer as Inter Milan show strong interest.

Early career highlights Almost two years ago, Curtis Jones reflected on his happiness under Liverpool manager Arne Slot during a pre-season tour in the United States. While he credited Jürgen Klopp for transforming him from an inexperienced player into a mature professional, Jones indicated a preference for teams where midfielders play a central role. His development continued when he made his England debut under Lee Carsley, scoring a notable back-heel goal in Athens. Later, Jones was included in Thomas Tuchel’s first England squad in March of 2025. ## World Cup absence and contract uncertainty The 2024-25 season marked Jones’s breakthrough campaign, during which Liverpool secured the Premier League title. However, a year later, the 25-year-old faces a pivotal career moment. His current Liverpool contract expires next summer, and despite ongoing contract talks, no extension has been finalized. Last summer, Jones anticipated becoming a key Liverpool player and competing in the World Cup, but instead, he spent the tournament in Los Angeles before attending the Monaco Grand Prix earlier this month. ## Playing time struggles under Slot Under Arne Slot, Jones found it difficult to secure a regular starting position in central midfield, his preferred role, and often featured as an emergency right-back. By the end of Slot’s tenure, Jones publicly expressed frustration through social media, posting a clapping emoji under Mohamed Salah’s post that called for tactical changes. His final season saw him record 49 appearances for Liverpool, the highest total in any campaign, yet only 10 of those were Premier League starts in midfield, with 21 coming as a substitute. ## Liverpool’s stance on Jones’s future Liverpool are keen to retain Jones, the club’s only first-team player from the city, but would consider letting him leave if a suitable offer around £35 million is received. The club aims to avoid repeating past mistakes, such as losing Ibrahima Konaté, Mohamed Salah, and Andy Robertson on free transfers. A decision is needed this summer to prevent Jones leaving for nothing next year. ## Inter Milan’s growing interest Inter Milan have closely monitored Jones’s situation since January, with sporting director Pierre Ausilio confirming their attention. Federico Chiesa even discussed life in Milan with Jones, highlighting the improved weather compared to Liverpool. Inter view Jones as a key target for the summer transfer window and believe he could play a central role in their squad. ## Jones’s personal ambitions and leadership Jones has spoken openly about his desire for responsibility and leadership, stating his willingness to take risks. He emphasized his role as a player who wants to be relied upon by teammates, staff, and fans. Jones also expressed admiration for Steven Gerrard, saying he would love to follow in his footsteps and remain at Liverpool for life. In December, he told Sky Sports, 'I want to be humble and not say things like I’m going to be captain.. but I want to be captain of the team.' ## Club dynamics and dressing room impact Jones brings unique value to Liverpool’s dressing room through his deep connection to the club and its fanbase. With several senior players set to leave this summer and others like Alisson Becker, Virgil van Dijk, and Joe Gomez out of contract next year, new manager Andoni Iraola may need to assess Jones’s long-term role quickly. Pre-season, beginning next month, could provide clarity for both player and club before final decisions are made. ## Penalty miss and Champions League moment In the 2025 Champions League clash against PSG, Jones stepped up to take Liverpool’s third penalty and saw his effort saved by Gianluigi Donnarumma. Despite the miss, he framed the experience as part of his journey, stating, 'I can live with missing, but I can’t live without taking responsibility.' He described himself as someone who embraces risk and wants to be a key figure for the team and its supporters.