Key Takeaways:
- Inter have sustained their interest in Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones, with negotiations ongoing since January
- Liverpool have maintained a €40 million asking price, exceeding Inter’s latest €25 million offer as of recent talks
- Arsenal have entered the race for Jones after missing out on other midfield targets, while the player reportedly prefers a move to San Siro
Inter’s Negotiation Strategy and Approach
Inter’s pursuit of Curtis Jones has not waned, despite the club’s refusal to enter a bidding war for the 23-year-old Liverpool midfielder. Jones continues to be among the highest priorities for the Nerazzurri as they look to bolster their squad, with head coach Cristian Chivu understood to be a strong admirer of the player.
Although Inter initiated contact with Liverpool in January, progress has stalled as Liverpool remain resolute in their price demands, even with just one year remaining on Jones’ current contract.
🚨 Arsenal have entered the race to sign Curtis Jones after Inter's move for the Liverpool midfielder stalled.
Inter are refusing to go beyond their €25M offer, while Liverpool continue to demand around £35M. Arsenal are now monitoring the situation and could make their move.… pic.twitter.com/J5zM7rNGqa
— Transfer News Live (@DeadlineDayLive) June 28, 2026
Stalemate in Valuation
Fresh reports indicate that Inter have formally notified Liverpool of their readiness to abandon discussions if Liverpool refuse to lower their financial expectations. Sporting director Piero Ausilio commented on the negotiations several weeks ago, stating:
“A minimal gap? That’s what you say, the millions aren’t yours,” Ausilio said. “We were interested in January and we still are now. We tried and we’ll try again, if we meet on the valuation, good; if not, we’ll do something else.”
Currently, Inter’s offer has been incremented up to €25 million, but Liverpool are holding steady at €40 million. The Italian club has made it clear that they do not plan to match this valuation.
Arsenal Enter the Fray and Player’s Preference
Inter’s efforts have been further complicated by Arsenal’s late move to sign Jones, turning to the Liverpool midfielder after Sandro Tonali’s transfer fee escalated and a verbal £55 million offer for Newcastle’s Bruno Guimarães was rejected. Despite the increased competition, intermediaries representing both Inter and Liverpool have maintained dialogue over the last week. Notably, reports suggest that Jones himself is inclined towards a transfer to San Siro.
