Ben Jacobs: Liverpool ‘frustrated’ by ongoing midfield transfer saga | OneFootball

Curtis Jones Transfer Latest as Liverpool Demand Formal Inter Milan Bid

Liverpool’s position over Curtis Jones is becoming clearer as the summer window moves into a decisive phase, with irritation at Anfield centred less on valuation and more on process. According to Ben Jacobs on talkSPORT, Inter Milan remain keen on the midfielder, but the way they have advanced their interest has left Liverpool unimpressed.

The key issue is straightforward. Liverpool do not regard Inter’s contact to date as a proper bid. Jacobs explained, “Inter are pushing for Curtis Jones,” before adding, “They made an offer, in inverted commas, although Liverpool don’t really see it as a formal bid, in the region of €35million, and that’s their third approach.” He also outlined the previous figures discussed, saying, “€32million and €25million were the other numbers.”

That leaves a notable gap between the two clubs. Liverpool are understood to want at least €40 million for Jones, with the wider market likely to support a higher expectation. For a homegrown player, still only entering what should be peak years, and one with first-team pedigree, the club’s stance is hardly surprising. The central point, though, is that Liverpool want direct club-to-club dialogue rather than conversations arriving through third parties.

Photo: IMAGO

Inter Milan Interest Meets Firm Liverpool Stance

There is a strong sense that Liverpool believe this deal could be discussed constructively if Inter alter their approach. Jacobs said, “My sense is Inter will be back and Liverpool are a bit frustrated by this because they don’t want it through intermediaries anymore.” He added, “The perspective of the club, according to my info, is if Inter want Curtis Jones, a bit like Bruno Guimaraes, Newcastle-Arsenal, knock on our front door, make us a formal offer and then you might find a financial compromise.”

That is a significant detail. It suggests Liverpool are not slamming the door shut, but they are setting terms for how business must be conducted. Clubs at this level expect clarity, accountability and structure. In this case, all three matter.

Curtis Jones Contract Situation Adds Pressure

Jones is reported to be open to the move, which adds another layer to a situation already sharpened by contract timing. He is entering the final year of his deal, meaning Liverpool will soon need a firm resolution, whether that comes through a sale or fresh terms. The club’s flexibility on that point is notable, especially after the recent flashpoint in pre-season.

The exchange involving Jones and Dominik Szoboszlai after the Wrexham match brought unwanted attention. Darragh MacAnthony’s criticism was blunt, “He’s acting like a spoilt brat.” He continued, “That behaviour can’t happen, not from a graduate from the academy, he’s too into himself.”

Yet the incident has not closed off Jones’ future on Merseyside. Jacobs said, “Andoni Iraola’s said that he likes Curtis Jones, and despite the bust up you mentioned, Liverpool are not averse to offering Jones a new deal if he stays.” For now, the message is unmistakable. Liverpool are open to outcomes, but only a formal Inter Milan bid will push the Curtis Jones transfer story forward. As Jacobs put it, “This is going to be one to watch in the month of August.”

Our View

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report feels like one of those moments where emotion and logic are pulling in different directions. Curtis Jones is one of our own. He came through the academy, understands the weight of the shirt and has delivered big moments along the way. That always matters at Anfield, probably more than at most clubs.

At the same time, if he truly wants the move and Inter are serious, then the process has to respect Liverpool. No fan wants to see the club messed around through back channels and vague numbers. If Inter want him, they should put the money down properly and deal with Liverpool in the right way. That part feels non-negotiable.

The pre-season incident is disappointing, of course. Supporters never like seeing a player react badly, especially one who should know what standards are expected. But one moment should not define a player completely. Footballers are human, pressure is real and tensions can spill over. What matters now is how Jones responds.

If he stays, many fans would still back him wholeheartedly, provided the attitude is right and the commitment is obvious. If he goes, Liverpool must get full value. There should be no cut-price exit for a talented, homegrown midfielder entering his prime. Sentiment counts, but so does smart squad management. This feels like a big August decision for everyone involved.

Source: Ben Jacobs on talkSPORT