Liverpool have turned down Inter Milan's verbal offer of €25m (£21.7m) for midfielder Curtis Jones, with the club holding out for closer to their £35m valuation. The 25-year-old has entered the final year of his Anfield contract, making this transfer window pivotal for both player and club. Liverpool are determined not to lose a product of their academy system on the cheap.

This represents the second approach from the Italian giants for Jones in 2024, following a January inquiry that involved a proposed loan deal with an option to buy - also rebuffed by Liverpool. Sporting director Piero Ausilio recently confirmed Inter's ongoing interest, while teammate Federico Chiesa revealed Jones has been asking about life in Italy. These details suggest genuine intent from the Serie A side.

Jones progressed through Liverpool's youth ranks after joining at age nine, signing his first professional deal in 2018. His homegrown status makes him a special case for the Reds, who would prefer a contract extension rather than selling to rivals. With European football expanding his options, Liverpool face a delicate situation balancing sentiment against market value.

The midfielder's future likely hinges on whether Inter return with an improved offer before the deadline. Liverpool's stance signals they won't be bullied into accepting below their asking price, even with contractual pressure mounting.