Arne Slot responds to Curtis Jones transfer rumours | OneFootball

Liverpool backing Curtis Jones as Arne Slot outlines midfield stance

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot has moved to underline the club’s position on Curtis Jones, offering clarity on the midfielder’s role and future after recent transfer speculation. With Jones entering the final 18 months of his contract, questions have lingered about his long term place at Anfield. Slot’s comments point firmly towards continuity, even if formal discussions on a new deal are not yet under way.

Slot, who guided Liverpool to the Premier League title in his debut 2024/25 season, has leaned heavily on squad management and availability. In that context, Jones’ importance has become clearer, particularly as the demands on midfielders continue to evolve.

Arne Slot explains midfield dynamics

Slot was keen to stress that Jones’ situation must be viewed through the lens of squad balance rather than individual form. Speaking candidly, he said:“He has played a lot of minutes, but he’s also ‘unlucky’ in the sense it’s the only line where we haven’t had injuries.

“That’s of course why we kept in because we have a lot of players in that line, but we need these midfielders in different positions as well.

“When you start doing that, the line in midfield gets smaller and smaller.”

Photo: IMAGO

The message is that availability, not surplus, has shaped Liverpool’s thinking. While Jones has faced competition, Slot sees flexibility as a necessity rather than a luxury, particularly across a long domestic and European campaign.

Curtis Jones remains central to Liverpool plans

Jones continues to be regarded as part of Liverpool’s core group. Slot reinforced that stance when discussing squad numbers and long term planning. He said:“His situation hasn’t changed to us. He’s one of the 16 outfield players we have available for the long-term now and with two young players in Trey and Rio included.

“It would be a bit strange if we let anyone go if we only have 16 available.”

That assessment reflects Liverpool’s broader strategy under Slot, prioritising depth, adaptability and continuity. Jones’ ability to operate in multiple midfield roles fits neatly with that approach, even if his path to regular starts has not always been straightforward.

Contract talks and next steps at Liverpool

On the subject of a new contract, Slot was careful to draw clear boundaries between coaching and negotiation. He said:“Talks [on a new contract] are not taking place over here, they’re taking place in other places in this building.

“The moment we have any news, we’ll share it over here.

“We as a club are away and he is aware that there is only a year and a half years left. That’s all I can say about it.”

For now, Liverpool’s public position is one of calm. Jones remains valued, Slot remains focused on the pitch, and any contractual resolution will follow its own timeline behind the scenes.