£35m Liverpool star absent as transfer talk goes into overdrive over imminent exit

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Curtis Jones was excluded from Liverpool’s pre-season friendly squad to face AS Monaco on Sunday despite being involved in the Reds’ first three friendlies of the summer. The Liverpool Echo’s Ian Doyle reports that the specific nature of the injury is a problem with the 26-year-old’s hip.

Curtis Jones has a hip problem and that's why he isn't being risked today for #LFC ? — Ian Doyle (@IanDoyleSport) August 9, 2026 Fabrizio Romano also reports: “Curtis Jones, out of Liverpool squad today as he’s not even on the bench. LFC informs it’s precaution for the midfielder still wanted by Inter (priority target) and more clubs this summer.” Instead, Liverpool’s starting trio featured Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai and Florian Wirtz.

There have been reports all summer of the Italians’ interest but also their unwillingness to meet Liverpool’s £35m asking price. “The club is adamant on not going past a deal worth €30-35M including bonuses and if a move cannot be made this summer, a plan is in place to try to land Jones on a free transfer when the midfielder’s contract expires in 2027.” Michael first started supporting Liverpool after Istanbul in 2006.