Inter had hoped that Curtis Jones’ absence from the Liverpool squad might indicate he could be transferred for less than €40 million. However, coach Andoni Iraola clarified that Jones was not included in the lineup due to a hip injury.
MILAN, ITALY – DECEMBER 09: Curtis Jones of Liverpool controls the ball while being pressured by Nicolo Barella of FC Internazionale Milano during the UEFA Champions League 2025/26 League Phase MD6 match at Stadio San Siro on December 09, 2025. (Photo by Justin Setterfield/Getty Images)
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The England international has long been a target for Inter Milan, but they have encountered multiple rejected offers.
With his contract expiring in June 2027, there were hopes that the €40 million asking price would decrease, especially since Jones’ absence from the bench during a recent friendly match at Anfield raised speculation.
Iraola Addresses Jones’ Absence
Nonetheless, Iraola provided an explanation for Jones’ absence during the team’s 3-2 loss to AS Monaco.
“Curtis has been training every day but experienced some hip issues yesterday. It doesn’t appear to be serious, but it didn’t make sense to take any risks, especially with players who are getting closer to a return,” Iraola noted.
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Jeremy Jacquet was also omitted from the squad due to fitness concerns.
LIVERPOOL, ENGLAND – APRIL 25: Curtis Jones of Liverpool during the Premier League match against Crystal Palace at Anfield on April 25, 2026. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
If Inter decides to invest €40 million in Jones, they may need to offload one of their current midfielders, with Aleksandar Stankovic being the most probable candidate. This move could provoke fan backlash, given that Stankovic is a product of Inter’s youth academy and the son of former player Dejan Stankovic.