Inter preparing third bid for Curtis Jones

A new chapter is opening in Inter's long-running pursuit of Curtis Jones. According to TeamTalk's exclusive report, the Italian champions are preparing a third bid for Liverpool's English midfielder. Having kept the player among their priority targets since January, Inter have already seen two bids rejected; their latest offer was worth £21 million.

The fundamental issue between the two clubs stands out as the valuation gap. Liverpool do not want to sanction a sale below £30 million, with the club's internal valuation reported to be in the region of £34 million. The English club is said to base that figure on the inflated Premier League market, in which Elliot Anderson moved to Manchester City for £116 million and Sandro Tonali joined Tottenham for £100 million.

On Inter's side, a gradual approach is in play. According to reports, the Italian giants are prepared to increase their offer to around £25 million and could stretch slightly beyond that if required; however, a reluctance to reach Liverpool's £30 million demand remains. Inter believe their current proposals represent fair value for a player whose contract expires in 12 months.

The picture on the player's side, meanwhile, gives Inter encouragement. Jones is reported to be pleased by Inter's persistence in continuing to pursue him despite repeated setbacks, and is open to a move to the San Siro this summer. Although the English player is prepared to fight for his place under new Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola, he is said to believe his chances of becoming a regular starter are greater in Milan. The course of the transfer will become clearer in the coming days.

Source: TeamTalk
Image: BBC Sport