Liverpool may have been presented with an unexpected transfer opportunity that could help solve one of Arne Slott’s biggest season-threatening problems.
Following Fabrizio Romano’s report that Inter Milan are in direct talks to sign Curtis Jones, the door is wide open for the Reds to solve their growing defensive crisis in spectacular fashion.
Liverpool could use Curtis Jones to sign Denzel Dumfries
According to Romano, the Nerazzurri have identified Jones as their first choice to replace Davide Frattesi, who is close to joining Nottingham Forest.
This latest development could open new doors for the Reds, with talks reportedly starting over a loan with an option to buy.
According to reports from Italy, and later reported by the Mirror, Liverpool have made inquiries about Inter wing-back Denzel Dumfries.
With Inter in need of a technical midfielder and Liverpool keen to sign a right-back, a potential swap for the two stars could be mooted as clubs try to find a solution before Monday’s deadline.
Liverpool’s defensive urgency increases
Manager Arne Slott confirmed on Friday that summer signing Jeremy Frimpong will miss several weeks with a muscular injury, joining Conor Bradley, who is expected to miss the season.
Without a senior right-back, a move for Dumfries makes sense.
The Dutch international, who has been frequently linked with a move to Manchester United, would bring Champions League experience, tactical versatility and athleticism suited to Premier League football.
A loan deal could be the ideal short-term solution to keep Liverpool’s top-four hopes alive.
Curtis Jones sacrifice may be necessary
Losing a raw talent like Curtis Jones midway through the season will be a blow, but it may be the sacrifice the Reds have to make.
Jones has struggled to get off to a consistent start under Slott and has found himself trailing behind the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenbirch, Dominik Szoboszlai and Florian Wirtz.
With midfield depth intact and defensive options stretched thin, Liverpool may be forced to prioritize addressing their defensive crisis over midfield depth.
There is one potential complication, with Dumfries himself currently suffering a minor injury and not expected to return until late February.
Still, Liverpool may consider this an opportunity too good to ignore, especially with their top-four ambitions at stake.
