Liverpool manager Arne Slot has provided a detailed explanation for the club's firm decision to retain midfielder Curtis Jones during the recent transfer window, despite significant interest from other top European clubs.
Slot's Clear Stance on Jones' Future
The Dutch tactician has made his position unequivocally clear, stating that it would have been 'strange' to consider selling the 24-year-old England international. Jones was the subject of concrete approaches from Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur and Italian giants Inter Milan, yet Liverpool remained resolute in their determination to keep him at Anfield.
Squad Depth and Injury Considerations
Slot emphasised that the overall injury situation within the squad played a pivotal role in the decision-making process. The manager believes there was never a genuine debate about allowing Jones to depart, given the need to maintain adequate cover in midfield positions throughout a demanding season.
"I think what you've seen... he has played a lot of minutes," Slot explained. "We kept him because we have players, but we need players in these positions. The moment you start to need midfielders in different positions, the line gets smaller and smaller."
Competition for Places
Jones faces intense competition for a starting berth in Liverpool's midfield, contending with established stars such as Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, and Dominik Szoboszlai. Despite this fierce internal rivalry, the academy graduate has proven his worth to Slot, making 30 appearances across all competitions this season and demonstrating his versatility and value to the team's structure.
Strategic Squad Planning
The manager outlined the broader strategic thinking behind the retention. Jones is viewed as one of sixteen available senior outfield players, supplemented by promising youngsters like Trey Nyoni and Kieran Ngumoha. This context made the idea of sanctioning a sale appear illogical from a squad management perspective.
"His situation hasn't changed to us," Slot affirmed. "It would be strange if we let anyone go." This statement underscores the club's long-term planning and commitment to maintaining a competitive squad capable of challenging on multiple fronts.
The decision reflects a calculated approach to squad building, prioritising stability and depth over potential short-term financial gain from a transfer fee. It signals strong faith in Jones' continued development and his role within Slot's tactical framework at Liverpool.
