Ben Jacobs: Liverpool ready to sell star for £40m | OneFootball

Richard Hughes Draws Firm Line as Liverpool Weigh Curtis Jones Future

Liverpool have reached another important point in their summer rebuild. Recruitment is attracting plenty of attention, yet decisions over who stays may prove just as significant as any new arrival. According to Ben Jacobs, sporting director Richard Hughes has now placed a valuation of around £40 million on Curtis Jones, a figure that sends a clear message to potential buyers.

That stance reflects Liverpool’s wider approach in the market. Every player has a value, but there is little appetite to sell unless the terms make complete sense. Jones remains a home grown midfielder with years of top level experience despite still being in his mid twenties. Those qualities are not easily replaced.

Fresh Start Under Iraola

Last season left Jones in an awkward position. Opportunities were limited and he rarely featured in the role that has always brought the best out of him. With Andoni Iraola now leading Liverpool into a new era, the conversation has changed.

There is a genuine belief that Jones could flourish in a system built on intensity, pressing and quick transitions. His willingness to carry the ball, retain possession under pressure and drive through midfield fits naturally with that style of football.

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That makes Liverpool’s valuation understandable. Selling a player who already understands the club, the expectations and the dressing room only becomes worthwhile if the financial return justifies the risk.

Interest Continues to Grow

Ben Jacobs has outlined the latest situation.

“Curtis Jones is a target for Nottingham Forest,”

“Liverpool aware of the Forest interest as Vitor Pereira’s side look to strengthen in the centre of the park following the £116m departure of Elliot Anderson.

“Inter recently saw a £21.5m approach instantly shut down.

“Liverpool value Jones in the region of £40m, and it is unclear whether Forest are prepared to go that high.

“Liverpool are content to keep hold of Jones if their asking price is not met.

“Jones is heading into the final year of his contract but should he remain beyond this summer, talks over a new contract are not ruled out.

Photo: IMAGO

“Forest also have Spurs’ Lucas Bergvall high in their thinking. The Swedish midfielder has asked the club to leave as he seeks a new challenge.”

Those comments underline Liverpool’s confidence. There is no urgency to accept reduced offers simply because Jones has entered the final year of his current deal.

Smart Business Must Come First

Liverpool have always balanced ambition with financial discipline. That philosophy has delivered success for years and there is little reason to abandon it now.

Replacing Jones would almost certainly cost more than the reported £40 million valuation. Midfielders with his technical quality, Premier League experience and understanding of Liverpool’s demands command significant fees in today’s market.

Names such as Alex Scott and Eduardo Camavinga continue to be linked in transfer discussions, but neither represents an inexpensive solution.

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Hughes appears determined to avoid making emotional decisions. If a club meets Liverpool’s asking price, conversations can progress. If not, Jones remains a valuable member of the squad and contract discussions could easily return before long.

For Liverpool, this feels less like a transfer saga and more like sensible planning. Every successful squad needs continuity alongside fresh faces, and Curtis Jones still has plenty to offer if given the platform to show it.

Our View, Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool supporters have watched Curtis Jones grow from academy prospect into a dependable first team player, and that journey should not be overlooked because one season failed to unfold as many expected.

A valuation of £40 million feels entirely reasonable. Home grown players with proven Premier League quality are expensive to replace, particularly when they already understand the demands of representing Liverpool. Selling Jones for anything close to Inter’s reported offer would make little football or financial sense.

The arrival of Iraola could also change everything. Managers value different qualities, and Jones possesses plenty that fit an energetic, aggressive approach. His ability to protect possession, press opponents and link midfield with attack should earn him another opportunity.

Supporters should also remember that Liverpool already face several important recruitment priorities. Spending heavily to replace a player they already own would feel unnecessary when those resources could strengthen other areas of the squad.

If Jones decides a fresh challenge is right for his career, Liverpool should respect that decision, but only if their valuation is met. Otherwise, keeping him, renewing his contract and allowing him to compete for a place appears the smarter option.

Sometimes the best business during a transfer window is resisting the temptation to sell too quickly.