Curtis Jones has posted an emotional message after his move from Liverpool to Serie A champions Inter was completed. The Reds will receive a guaranteed €30m for the academy graduate, with a further €5m in potential add-ons. A 10 per cent sell-on clause has also been negotiated.
Jones says goodbye after 16 years
The transfer ends the 25-year-old's long association with Liverpool. After it was announced, Jones took to social media to say: "After 16 years, it’s time to say goodbye.
"I came here as a kid with a dream of playing for Liverpool, and I’ve been lucky enough to actually live that dream.
"This club is all I’ve ever known. I came here as a kid and I’m leaving as a man with a family of my own, which probably puts into perspective just how much of my life I’ve spent here.
"So much has happened during my time here, both on and off the pitch. I’ve made my debut, won trophies, made memories I’ll never forget, and I’ve become a dad.
"Having my daughter while I’ve been here makes it even more special, because Liverpool isn’t just part of my story anymore, it’s part of my family’s story too.
"I want to thank everyone in the academy who believed in me and helped me get to where I am today. There are people here who have known me since I was a kid and literally watched me grow up.
"Thank you to every manager and coach I’ve worked with for trusting me, giving me opportunities, and always pushing me to become better.
"And a massive thank you to everyone behind the scenes – the physios, medical team, kit staff, chefs, analysts, security, media team, grounds staff, and everyone else who makes this place what it is.
"To all the lads I’ve shared a dressing room with over the years, thank you. I’ve played with some unbelievable players and made friendships that I know I’ll have for life.
"Thank you to the fans that stuck by me and always supported me. I will always be one of you.
"Now it’s time for a new challenge and a new chapter for me and my family, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.
"But Liverpool will always be a massive part of me. I came here as a kid with a dream, and I’m leaving having lived it.
"So genuinely, to everyone who has played any part in my 16 years here, thank you. I’ll never forget it. YNWA."
Career stats and trophies
Jones made 228 senior appearances for the Reds, scoring 22 goals, with his first being a winner in an FA Cup tie against Merseyside rivals Everton at Anfield. He went on to win six major trophies with the club, including two Premier League titles.
The Reds said in a statement: "All at Liverpool FC thank Curtis for his dedication and contribution to the club across the last 16 years, and wish him good luck in the next chapter of his career."
Iraola's view on the exit
Jones was into the last year of his contract and while the club's new head coach Andoni Iraola wanted him to stay, the England international had made up his mind.
Iraola said: "With Curtis, it is not official as there is an ongoing situation, but I understood with Curtis when we talked in the first or second training session.
"I value him a lot as a player and he loves this club, it's very clear. I understood the outcome was going to be what it is at the end."
