Curtis Jones' future is on a knife-edge, with his Liverpool contract set to expire next summer and Italian giants Inter Milan circling with increasing intensity. The 25-year-old midfielder's England debut in 2024 and Premier League title win with the Reds in the 2024-25 season will surely be remembered for years to come - but now he faces a crunch decision that could take him to the continent.
For months, Jones has been locked in talks over a new deal at Anfield, but an agreement remains elusive. That's left Inter Milan's Sporting Director Pierre Ausilio to sound out his interest: "Curtis Jones - we're paying attention to him. We didn't hide it. We understand the developments that will unfold." The Italian club's pursuit has been given further fuel by reports that Jones is keen on living in Italy, hinting at a move abroad that could be too good to resist.
Central midfield duties have long been Jones' preferred position, but under previous manager Arne Slot he found himself struggling to nail down his favoured role - often being pushed out of position to right-back in an emergency. Can new Liverpool boss Andoni Iraola offer him the consistency he craves? Initial chats with the Spaniard will be crucial for Jones to get a read on where he stands and what's expected of him.
Liverpool, meanwhile, face a difficult decision: do they stand in the way of their prized academy graduate leaving on a free transfer, or let him go and bank a potential £35 million? The only Scouser in the first team has made over 200 senior appearances - his value to the club cannot be overstated. But if Jones wants out and Inter Milan are willing to meet Liverpool's valuation, will they block his exit?
With ambition burning bright within him, Curtis Jones is clear about his aspirations: he wants to be a 'huge star' and a central figure on the pitch. Can the allure of being a key player for Inter Milan - a club that sees him as one of their top summer priorities - prove too great to resist? The answer will depend on how much he values the comfort zone of Anfield, where his roots run deep and his understanding of the club's culture is invaluable.
Source: Inter Milan Sporting Director Pierre Ausilio, GQ Magazine