Curtis Jones is prepared to leave Liverpool this summer to secure a more prominent role elsewhere, according to reports in The Times. Despite making 45 appearances across all competitions this season, the 25-year-old midfielder has started only 14 Premier League matches and is reportedly seeking a move to a club where he can be the central figure. Aston Villa and Inter Milan are the primary contenders for his signature, with contract negotiations between the player and Liverpool currently at a standstill.
Stalled negotiations and market interest in Jones
With his current deal set to expire in June 2027, the Anfield hierarchy is reportedly open to a sale this summer to avoid his value depreciating as he enters his final two years. Speaking on the Debrief podcast, Fabrizio Romano stated that "everything is on total standby between Curtis Jones, his camp and Liverpool." This lack of progress follows a rejected loan-to-buy offer from Inter Milan in January. Aston Villa are now understood to be monitoring the situation closely and could launch a formal bid as they look to strengthen their midfield depth for European competition. Given Liverpool's known sell-to-buy model, a sale could facilitate their pursuit of targets like RB Leipzig’s Yan Diomande.
Squad hierarchy and positional uncertainty at Anfield
Jones currently faces a significant bottleneck in the Liverpool midfield. Arne Slot has consistently preferred a core trio of Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Alexis Mac Allister, limiting Jones to a rotation role or situational shifts. Slot recently praised the academy graduate’s versatility following a start at right-back in the Merseyside Derby, noting his "character" in an unfamiliar role. However, this utility-man status appears at odds with Jones' ambition to be a regular starter in his preferred central position. Currently valued at approximately €49m, Jones finds himself at a career junction similar to that of former teammate Harvey Elliott, where a move to a top-tier rival may be the only path to becoming a consistent first-choice selection.
The coming weeks will determine if Liverpool can break the deadlock in contract talks or if they will sanction a permanent exit before their pre-season tour.