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Liverpool Slap £21.7m Price Tag on Jones, Reject Inter's Offer
BBC Sport — Football·about 2 months ago

Liverpool Slap £21.7m Price Tag on Jones, Reject Inter's Offer

Key points

  • Inter Milan offered €25m for Curtis Jones, rejected by Liverpool.
  • Jones is a homegrown talent with first-team experience at Anfield.
  • Liverpool's stance hints at either a higher valuation or desire to keep him.

Liverpool have turned down a €25m (£21.7m) verbal offer from Inter Milan for midfielder Curtis Jones, making it clear that the Anfield academy graduate is not for sale at that price.

The Offer

Inter Milan, looking to bolster their midfield ahead of the new season, tabled a verbal bid worth €25m for the 22-year-old England youth international. The approach was swiftly rejected by Liverpool’s hierarchy, who consider Jones a key part of their long-term plans. The Reds have not yet opened formal negotiations, but the offer serves as a gauge of the player’s market value.

Jones rose through the ranks at Liverpool's Kirkby academy and has made over 80 first-team appearances, scoring crucial goals including a memorable winner against Ajax in the Champions League. His technical ability, close control, and eye for goal have made him a favorite among the coaching staff.

Why Liverpool Said No

For Liverpool, Jones represents more than just a squad player. He is a local lad who embodies the club’s identity, and his potential is still far from fully realized. With the departure of veterans like James Milner and Naby Keïta this summer, Jürgen Klopp is keen to keep his midfield options deep and homegrown. Accepting £21.7m would weaken the group and force the club into the market for a replacement — one that would likely cost more.

Moreover, Liverpool’s recent transfer policy has focused on retaining core talent rather than cashing in on academy products. The sale of players like Raheem Sterling in the past has taught the club to be patient with young talents. Jones’s contract still runs until 2027, giving Liverpool strong leverage. A fee closer to £40m might have sparked a conversation, but €25m was always going to be dismissed.

What It Means

This rejection sends a clear message: Curtis Jones is not a player Liverpool are willing to part with on the cheap. Inter may return with an improved bid, but the Reds will likely demand a significant premium — possibly double the initial offer — or simply shut the door entirely. For Jones, it’s a vote of confidence from his boyhood club. He now faces a season where he must prove he can nail down a regular starting spot, especially with new signings like Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai adding competition.

The transfer window is still open, and Inter’s interest could intensify. But Liverpool have drawn their line in the sand. For now, Curtis Jones remains a Red, with his future very much at Anfield.

Read Full Article at BBC Sport — Football

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