Arne Slot's Post-Nottingham Forest Comments Do Not Look Good for Curtis Jones' Liverpool Future

Arne Slot's pointed post-match remarks following Liverpool's clash with Nottingham Forest have cast a shadow over Curtis Jones' long-term future at Anfield, suggesting the midfielder's role in the squad is under scrutiny.

The Dutch manager expressed frustration over the team's pressing effectiveness, attributing it to fitness issues that hampered performance against Forest. Slot highlighted that certain players, including Jones who featured prominently, failed to maintain the required intensity, leading to lapses in the high-pressing system central to Liverpool's playstyle[2]. This comes amid ongoing speculation about Jones' contract, which expires in 2027, and interest from clubs like Tottenham and Inter Milan during the January window[4].

In a press conference ahead of the FA Cup tie against Brighton, Slot addressed Jones' situation directly. He noted that the 25-year-old "would have played much, much more" under ideal circumstances, implying current form or fitness concerns are limiting his minutes[3]. More tellingly, Slot defended Liverpool's transfer model, which prioritizes sales when contracts near their end to avoid losing players for free. "Our model is known," Slot said, referencing how clubs like those pursuing Luis Diaz and Caoimhin Kelleher last summer capitalized on expiring deals[4].

Insiders report that Liverpool rejected January bids not to weaken the squad mid-season, but unless Jones signs anew soon, sporting director Richard Hughes is poised to plan a summer 2026 exit[4]. Homegrown status won't shield him; the club's pragmatic approach—selling assets pre-free agency—makes a departure likely if negotiations stall.

Emerging talents like Trey Nyoni are tipped as replacements, signaling Slot's willingness to refresh the midfield[1]. Jones' camp reportedly encouraged bids, hinting at internal unrest. These comments paint a worrying picture for the academy product's Reds tenure, urging swift resolution or an inevitable sale.

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