Liverpool could be lining up a surprise swap deal that would see Curtis Jones involved in a move for Denzel Dumfries.
Liverpool may have been presented with a surprise opening in the transfer market — one that could allow Arne Slot to tackle a major issue threatening the club’s campaign.
After Fabrizio Romano reported that Inter Milan are in direct negotiations to sign Curtis Jones, a potential pathway has emerged for the Reds to address their escalating defensive problems in dramatic fashion.
Jones link could unlock Dumfries move
Romano claims Inter have earmarked Jones as their top option to replace Davide Frattesi, who is edging closer to a switch to Nottingham Forest. Talks are said to be centred on a loan deal with an option to buy, but the situation may offer Liverpool additional leverage.
Reports from Italy, later relayed by The Mirror, suggest the Reds have made enquiries about Inter wing-back Denzel Dumfries. With Inter in the market for a technically gifted midfielder and Liverpool urgently seeking a right-back, the conditions are in place for a possible swap-style arrangement to be explored before Monday’s deadline.
Defensive crisis forces Liverpool’s hand
Slot confirmed on Friday that Jeremie Frimpong will be sidelined for several weeks with a muscle injury, adding to the long-term absence of Conor Bradley, who is expected to miss the rest of the season.
With no senior right-back currently available, a move for Dumfries appears logical. The Dutch international would arrive with Champions League pedigree, positional flexibility and the physical attributes well suited to the Premier League.
A short-term loan could prove an ideal stopgap as Liverpool look to protect their top-four ambitions.
Jones exit could be the price to pay
Parting ways with a homegrown player like Jones midway through the season would not be an easy decision, but it may become a necessary compromise.
The midfielder has found minutes hard to come by under Slot, sitting behind the likes of Alexis Mac Allister, Ryan Gravenberch, Dominik Szoboszlai and Florian Wirtz in the pecking order.
With midfield numbers relatively healthy and defensive resources stretched to breaking point, Liverpool may feel compelled to prioritise fixing the backline over maintaining depth in the middle of the park.
There is, however, a potential snag — Dumfries is currently dealing with a minor injury and is not expected to return until late February.
Even so, with Champions League qualification on the line, Liverpool may view this as an opportunity too significant to pass up.
