Journalist claims Premier League side are keen on Liverpool star | OneFootball

Nottingham Forest weigh up Curtis Jones move as Bergvall also enters transfer picture

Nottingham Forest’s ambitious summer recruitment drive has taken another intriguing turn, with Curtis Jones emerging as one of the club’s leading midfield targets following the departure of Elliot Anderson.

According to transfer journalist Ben Jacobs, Forest are actively exploring a deal for the Liverpool academy graduate as they seek to strengthen the heart of their midfield before the new Premier League season. However, Liverpool are in no rush to sanction a sale and have already demonstrated that they will not compromise on their valuation.

Jacobs reports that: “Curtis Jones is a target for Nottingham Forest.”

The journalist added that: “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.”

The interest reflects Forest’s determination to reinvest intelligently after receiving a significant fee for Anderson, although convincing Liverpool to sell one of their longest-serving academy products will not be straightforward.

Liverpool stance remains firm despite contract uncertainty

While Jones is entering the final year of his current contract, Liverpool’s position remains clear. The club believe the midfielder retains considerable value despite the contractual situation and are prepared to keep him unless their demands are met.

That approach has already been evident during discussions with Inter Milan earlier in the transfer window.

As Jacobs explained: “Inter recently saw a £21.5m approach instantly shut down.”

Liverpool’s valuation is almost double that figure.

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

Rather than allowing Jones to leave below market value, Liverpool appear comfortable retaining him for another season should no suitable offer arrive.

Jacobs also notes: “Liverpool are content to keep hold of Jones if their asking price is not met.”

That stance underlines how highly Jones remains regarded internally. Although competition for midfield places has intensified, Liverpool still view the England international as an important squad option capable of contributing across multiple midfield roles.

His technical ability, tactical intelligence and homegrown status continue to carry significant weight.

Contract talks still possible for Jones

Jones’ contract situation inevitably adds another layer to the story.

With only one year remaining on his current deal, many clubs may view this summer as Liverpool’s best opportunity to generate a sizeable transfer fee. Yet Liverpool are not treating the situation as one requiring an immediate resolution through a sale.

Instead, there remains genuine scope for fresh negotiations if circumstances change over the coming months.

Jacobs reports: “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.”

That leaves several possible outcomes.

Forest could yet decide to test Liverpool’s resolve with an improved offer. Liverpool may ultimately persuade Jones that his long-term future still lies at Anfield. Equally, another club could enter the race later in the window should availability become clearer.

For now, Liverpool are showing little sign of lowering their demands simply because of the contract timeline.

Bergvall alternative offers Forest another route

Curtis Jones is not the only midfielder under consideration at the City Ground.

Jacobs also revealed that Forest have identified another highly regarded young talent should negotiations with Liverpool prove too difficult.

He reported: “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.”

The inclusion of Bergvall highlights Forest’s desire to recruit technically gifted midfielders capable of developing further under Vitor Pereira.

Whether Forest ultimately pursue Jones or Bergvall may depend on Liverpool’s willingness to negotiate and how aggressively Forest choose to invest following Anderson’s departure.

For Liverpool, the situation remains relatively simple. Jones is available only at the right price, and that figure currently stands well above what previous suitors have been prepared to pay.

With pre-season approaching, Liverpool retain complete control over the midfielder’s immediate future. Unless Nottingham Forest are prepared to meet the Reds’ valuation, Jones looks increasingly likely to remain part of Liverpool’s plans while discussions over a possible new contract continue.