“We all know…” – Slot speaks openly on Curtis Jones’ future amid exit speculation

Arne Slot says selling Curtis Jones in January would have been “strange”
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has insisted it would have been unusual for the club to sell Curtis Jones during the January transfer window, amid growing speculation over a possible mid-season exit.

The 25-year-old has reportedly attracted interest from Tottenham Hotspur and Inter Milan, with Fabrizio Romano claiming (via X) that the Serie A side even held direct club-to-club talks with Anfield.
Jones has just under 18 months left on his current Liverpool contract, and David Lynch suggested this week he’d be “surprised” if the midfielder agreed to a new deal, hinting that external interest may have influenced him.

Slot addresses transfer rumours and Jones’ role
During a Thursday press conference ahead of Liverpool’s clash with Manchester City, Slot was asked about Jones’ position in the squad. The head coach told Liverpool Echo:
“He has played a lot of minutes and has been unlucky — midfield is the only line without injuries. We kept him because we need players in these positions. At the moment, we have to start midfielders in different spots, which makes that line smaller. His situation hasn’t changed. He’s one of 16 outfield players available, with two youngsters, Trey Nyoni and Rio Ngumoha, so it would be strange to let anyone go.”

Asked whether he is determined to keep Jones long-term, Slot added:
“Talks aren’t happening here — they’re happening elsewhere in the club. Once we have news, we’ll share it. Everyone knows he has only 18 months left on his contract, so that’s all I can say.”

Liverpool couldn’t risk selling Jones
With injuries, especially in defence, Liverpool were not in a position to let first-team players leave in January. Jones has made 30 appearances this season (17 starts) and can cover at right-back if needed, making him a key part of the squad, especially with Jeremie Frimpong and Conor Bradley struggling with injuries. His consistent inclusion underlines how highly Slot values him.

The long-term question
Whether Jones remains at his boyhood club beyond his current contract remains uncertain. Capology reports his weekly wage of £50,000 is among the lowest in the first team, excluding academy players and fringe squad members.
With his contract expiring next year, Liverpool must soon make a major decision. As long as Jones continues to feature regularly, the hope is that he will commit his prime years to the Reds — provided the club offers a deal that reflects his importance to the team.