Inter Milan have expressed a firm desire to secure the signature of Liverpool midfielder Curtis Jones during the January transfer window. However, with their squad currently stretched thin by injuries, the Anfield club have made it clear they have no intention of allowing any first-team players to depart at this critical juncture.
Jones Returns to Availability for Newcastle Clash
The 25-year-old midfielder has been a regular feature for Arne Slot's side this campaign, making 29 appearances across all competitions. He was absent from Wednesday's Champions League victory over Qarabag due to illness, but his manager has now confirmed his return to fitness.
'Curtis (Jones) is again available,' the Reds boss stated emphatically during his Friday press conference. 'He was sick, as I said, but he is available.' This declaration comes as Liverpool prepare for a crucial Premier League encounter against Newcastle United on Saturday evening.
Injury List Complicates Any Potential Departures
Liverpool's stance is heavily influenced by their current injury crisis. The situation is particularly acute in defensive areas, with Conor Bradley ruled out for the remainder of the season and Jeremie Frimpong sidelined for several weeks.
Slot provided a detailed update on his squad's fitness: 'Frimpong will definitely not be in the squad tomorrow, so he is out for a few weeks. But [it's] not as bad as we thought he would be out. It's something positive from something not so positive.'
There is some positive news, however, as Ibrahima Konate has returned to training and will be included in the squad for the Newcastle match. Unfortunately, Joe Gomez is unlikely to feature after sustaining a hip injury. 'Joe (Gomez) will not be available but that doesn't have to take much longer anymore, but he will not be available for the weekend,' Slot added.
Transfer Irony and Inter's Alternative Plans
In a twist of transfer market irony, Liverpool have themselves been linked with interest in Inter Milan's right-back, Denzel Dumfries. However, sources indicate that the Premier League champions are not currently in active negotiations to sign a right-back, despite the reported admiration.
Meanwhile, Inter Milan are proceeding with their own squad planning. Denzel Dumfries is currently focused on his rehabilitation following surgery for a fractured ankle last month. The Dutch defender is targeting a return in time for Inter's Champions League play-off clash with Bodo/Glimt next month.
With Dumfries injured and their pursuit of Jones seemingly blocked, Inter have reportedly initiated talks with Genoa regarding a potential move for England Under-21 right-back Brooke Norton-Cuffy, indicating they are exploring alternative options to bolster their defensive ranks.
The situation underscores the complex dynamics of the January transfer window, where club needs, player availability, and injury crises often dictate strategy more than mere desire.
