Journalist: Liverpool facing a ‘big problem’ with midfielder set to leave | OneFootball

Curtis Jones Future in Doubt After Latest Liverpool Selection Call

Liverpool secured a tense 1-0 win over Sunderland under immense pressure, yet much of the post match discussion shifted towards Curtis Jones and his uncertain future at the club. Once viewed as a long term cornerstone of the midfield, the homegrown talent now finds himself on the fringes, with Arne Slot again leaving him on the bench and choosing Wataru Endo at right back instead.

Speaking to Dave Davis for Anfield Index, David Lynch delivered a candid assessment of the situation, raising concerns that the story may be heading towards an inevitable conclusion as interest from Spurs and Inter Milan grows with just 18 months remaining on Jones’ contract.

Selection decisions raise questions

Liverpool’s current run of form has brought difficult selection choices, but Jones’ absence from the starting line up has become increasingly noticeable. “Football can surprise you and you can’t guarantee anything, but we’d now be surprised if Jones doesn’t leave in the summer.” That statement reflects a growing belief that the midfielder’s future lies away from Anfield.

“He hasn’t started any of the last six games and you also had Inter Milan trying to sign him in January.” In a squad competing for European qualification, minutes often define status, and Jones’ lack of starts paints a worrying picture.

The decision to deploy Endo out of position during a high pressure fixture only amplified the narrative that Jones currently sits outside the manager’s preferred plans. It is not simply about rotation, it feels like a shift in hierarchy.

Contract uncertainty and transfer interest

Liverpool’s reluctance to sell in January suggests the club still values Jones, yet Lynch hinted that the situation lacks clarity behind the scenes. “Liverpool didn’t want to let him leave mid-season, but nobody has said that he didn’t want to go, which is strange.” That ambiguity fuels speculation, especially with Spurs and Inter Milan reportedly monitoring developments.

With contract time ticking down, the club faces a familiar dilemma, commit to the player or risk losing leverage in negotiations. Lynch’s comments suggest that internal confidence may be wavering.

“I asked Slot in the press conference whether he wants him to stay and he kind of shot it down.” Such a response inevitably raises eyebrows, particularly for a player who represents both quality and local identity within the squad.

Photo: IMAGO

Emotional connection to a homegrown talent

Perhaps the most striking part of Lynch’s analysis was the emotional tone when discussing Jones’ situation. “I can’t believe it has come to this. He’s a brilliant player but he’s also homegrown and a local lad, a scouser.” Liverpool supporters often place special value on players who understand the culture of the club, which makes the current uncertainty feel more personal.

“I don’t understand why he isn’t being used more this season because Mac Allister’s form has been really poor this season.” That perspective highlights a broader debate around midfield balance and opportunity, particularly when performances elsewhere have been inconsistent.

Jones has shown flashes of composure and technical quality in previous campaigns, which makes his current role even more puzzling to observers.

Bigger squad rebuild looming

Beyond individual circumstances, Lynch also touched on the wider implications for Liverpool’s summer planning. “It’s so sad. It causes Liverpool a big problem because they already need defenders and a winger in the summer. Then the likes of Robertson and Konate could both need replacing.” The possibility of multiple squad changes adds further complexity to any decision about Jones’ future.

“I’m a bit gutted about it but it seems like it’s heading that way.” Those words capture a sense of resignation, a feeling that a player once central to Liverpool’s long term vision may be drifting towards the exit.

As Liverpool continue their push towards the top five, the focus on results remains paramount. Yet behind the scenes, the uncertainty surrounding Jones offers a reminder that success on the pitch often runs alongside difficult decisions off it.