Report: Liverpool and Newcastle United set for another transfer showdown over England midfielder | OneFootball

Liverpool Face Curtis Jones Conundrum as Premier League Interest Grows

Liverpool are approaching a defining summer decision and Curtis Jones sits firmly at the centre of it. According to reporting from TEAMtalk, Newcastle United are closely monitoring the midfielder as they weigh up potential changes in their engine room, with Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa also hovering. For a player once viewed as a long term cornerstone at Anfield, this growing external interest sharpens the focus on Liverpool’s own intentions.

Jones, now 25, has reached an intriguing stage of his career. A local lad with deep ties to the club, he remains under contract until 2027, yet his role under Arne Slot has sparked debate. He has featured regularly in squads and across competitions, but starts have been harder to come by, largely due to the depth and quality of Liverpool’s midfield options.

Newcastle See Jones as Tonali Contingency

TEAMtalk’s report makes clear that Newcastle’s interest is not casual. Sources confirm a “longstanding interest” in Jones, with the Magpies viewing him as a potential option should uncertainty around Sandro Tonali or Joelinton lead to departures. Tonali, in particular, continues to be linked with Arsenal, creating a possible vacancy in Eddie Howe’s midfield.

From Newcastle’s perspective, the appeal is obvious. Jones is technically secure, comfortable carrying the ball, and tactically flexible. As noted in the report, he is “known for his composure on the ball, dribbling ability, and versatility across central areas,” traits that align neatly with Howe’s evolving system.

Photo: IMAGO

Tottenham and Villa Lurking in Background

Newcastle are not alone. Tottenham were described as “notably aggressive” in their enquiries during January, while Aston Villa remain keen admirers under Unai Emery. Both clubs value Jones’ Premier League experience and his homegrown status, which continues to carry weight in squad planning.

However, despite this external noise, the situation remains firmly under Liverpool’s control. TEAMtalk underline that any concrete moves depend on whether the reigning champions are prepared to sanction a sale.

Slot Draws a Clear Line for FSG

Arne Slot has left little room for ambiguity. Speaking candidly, he stressed the importance of Jones within his current group.

“He has played a lot of minutes and has been unlucky in the sense that midfield is the only line where we haven’t had injuries,” Slot said.

“We kept him because we have players but we need players in these positions. At the moment, we need to start midfielders in different positions, so that line gets smaller and smaller.”

Slot went further, highlighting squad numbers and depth.

“We kept him; his situation hasn’t changed for us. He is one of 16 outfield players we have available, with two young players in Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha, so it would be strange if we let anyone go.”

Contract talks remain unresolved, with Slot adding, “Talks are not taking place here. Talks are taking place in other places in this building.”

Summer Decision Approaches Fast

Liverpool’s reluctance to lose a homegrown player without renewal is well established, as seen when winter approaches, including interest from Inter Milan, were turned away. Yet with 18 months remaining, the clock is ticking. As TEAMtalk suggest, this summer could define whether Jones’ future remains red or whether Liverpool decide to cash in.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report lands with an uncomfortable thud. Curtis Jones may not always be the first name on the team sheet, but he represents continuity, identity, and trust in the academy pathway. Losing him now, especially when he is entering his peak years, feels risky.

There is also a wider concern about squad balance. Slot is right to highlight the lack of injuries in midfield, but that can change quickly. A long season, European commitments, and the physical demands of his system mean depth is not a luxury, it is a necessity. Selling Jones to strengthen a rival like Newcastle or Tottenham could easily come back to bite.

Supporters will also worry about the message it sends. If a player who has “played a lot of minutes” and stayed patient still sees his future questioned, what does that say to the next generation coming through? Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha are talented, but relying too heavily on youth without experienced cover is a gamble.

Ultimately, this feels like a moment where FSG need to back the manager and the squad. Tie Jones down, define his role, and keep a valuable asset in house. Letting this drift into a summer bidding war would only add unnecessary uncertainty to a side that should be building stability under a new era.