Curtis Jones edges closer to Inter Milan as Liverpool talks advance

Curtis Jones is reportedly moving closer to an Inter Milan transfer, with growing confidence that Liverpool could soften their €40m asking price and allow a deal to be completed.

Inter's interest stretches back several months, with sporting director Piero Ausilio previously holding talks with Liverpool counterpart Richard Hughes. The Italian club subsequently made an opening offer worth around €20m.

That fell short of Liverpool's valuation, but the situation is becoming more significant because Jones' current contract expires in 2027 and he has reportedly declined to sign a renewal.

According to Quotidiano Sportivo, Liverpool currently value Jones at approximately €40m, although there is optimism that an agreement could eventually be reached for around €35m.

Jones missed Liverpool's two recent friendlies against Como because of a minor hip problem. The report also views his absence in the context of his desire to join Inter.

Transfer journalist Gianluigi Longari reports that Jones has already reached a full agreement over personal terms with the Serie A champions, with those terms said to have been in place since February.

Intermediaries working on the transfer are now confident Liverpool's demands could decrease, with fresh contact between the clubs expected as negotiations enter a potentially decisive stage.

An agreement is described as being “almost there”, although the remaining difference over the transfer fee still needs to be resolved.

Inter were already close to signing Jones in January, but their inability to move Davide Frattesi out of the club prevented the deal from progressing.

The 25-year-old has continued to favour the move despite the possibility of attracting interest elsewhere in the Premier League.

His contractual situation also gives Inter additional leverage. With Jones entering the final year of his Liverpool deal and reportedly unwilling to renew, the Reds must decide whether to accept a reduced fee this summer or risk his value declining further.

For Inter, a deal around €35m would add another established England international to Cristian Chivu's squad following the arrival of John Stones on a free transfer.

Inter and Liverpool are expected to resume discussions as intermediaries attempt to bridge the remaining gap in valuation.

Jones' desire to join Inter and his contract situation could prove decisive. If Liverpool lower their demands towards €35m, there is growing confidence in Italy that an agreement can be reached before the transfer window closes.