Liverpool Transfers: Curtis Jones and Cody Gakpo Exit Talks Shape Andoni Iraola Rebuild
Liverpool could yet see two notable departures before the window shuts, with Caught Offside reporting that Curtis Jones is wanted by Inter Milan and Cody Gakpo is moving closer to Tottenham Hotspur. For Andoni Iraola, this is quickly becoming a key part of his summer rebuild.
Jones has entered the final year of his deal, and that fact naturally sharpens the discussion. According to the report, Inter have made him “a priority target” and “believe a deal can be reached for around €35 million.” Liverpool are said to have wanted nearer €40m, but the wider context matters. If there is no extension, the club risk losing leverage as the season progresses.
The report adds that Jones is open to Italy, while his recent absences have fuelled talk around his future. It is understood, however, that those omissions were linked to “a hip problem and fitness management rather than simply protecting him for a transfer.” That distinction is important, because it suggests a football decision has not yet fully been made.
Gakpo Exit Links Gather Pace
Gakpo’s situation feels more advanced. It is claimed that he has “reached an agreement in principle with Tottenham”, with Liverpool seeking “more than £60m” and sources valuing him at around £70m. Unlike Jones, Liverpool are under no pressure on contract. Gakpo is tied down until 2030, which means any deal would need to suit the club’s terms.
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That is where the wider strategy becomes relevant. Liverpool continue to work on a move for Bradley Barcola, with the report stating he “remains the major target” and that personal terms are already in place, even as Paris Saint-Germain seek a premium fee. Ibrahim Mbaye is also mentioned, reinforcing the sense that this is not isolated business.
Liverpool Transfer Strategy Taking Shape
Seen together, these are not random market opportunities. Jones could be sold now rather than risk an awkward contract stand-off. Gakpo could depart only if the incoming picture is secure. As the report puts it, the “potential departures of Jones and Gakpo therefore feel like part of a wider plan rather than simple cost-cutting.” That sounds like the crux of it for Liverpool in the closing weeks of the window.
Our View
From a Liverpool perspective, this is one of those stories that feels understandable on paper but still uncomfortable emotionally. Curtis Jones is one of our own, a player who represents the pathway from academy to first team, and seeing him described as “a priority target” for another club will sting. If he genuinely wants a bigger central role and Liverpool cannot promise it, then a sale for €35 million may be sensible business. Even so, it would feel like losing a piece of the club’s identity.
Gakpo is a different debate. If he has “reached an agreement in principle with Tottenham”, then Liverpool have to be ruthless and get full value. £70m is a serious fee, and there is no reason to compromise when he is under contract until 2030. He has quality, versatility and goals in him, so Tottenham should have to pay properly.
The biggest issue for supporters will be trust in the sequence of deals. Selling before buying always creates anxiety. If Barcola truly “remains the major target”, then Liverpool need to land him before sanctioning too much change out wide. Fans will back a clear plan, especially under a new head coach, but only if the squad comes out stronger. Letting Jones and Gakpo go in the same window is a major call. It can work, but only if Liverpool replace quality with quality and avoid leaving Iraola short when the season begins.