Report: European giants eyeing double transfer raid on Liverpool

Inter Milan Plot Double Liverpool Transfer Raid

Fresh reporting from Corriere dello Sport has cast a spotlight on potential movement between Liverpool and Inter Milan ahead of the 2026 summer transfer window. According to the Italian outlet, Inter are lining up a double move for Curtis Jones and Giovanni Leoni as they prepare for a midfield and defensive reshuffle.

With the campaign entering its decisive phase, Liverpool’s internal planning is already well underway. There are unresolved questions around squad evolution under Arne Slot, contract situations to manage, and the broader challenge of sustaining momentum at the top end of domestic and European competition.

It is in that context that interest from Italy surfaces.

Curtis Jones Back on Nerazzurri Radar

The report states that Inter are revisiting their interest in Jones, having explored a deal in January. At that point, a loan with a €40 million option to buy was discussed, contingent on Davide Frattesi leaving late in the window. That move never materialised, yet the Italian giants are said to be preparing to return once the season concludes.

Jones, now 25, is approaching the final year of his current Liverpool contract this summer. In today’s market, that detail carries weight. Clubs across Europe are acutely aware of opportunities where contractual leverage can influence valuation.

Photo: IMAGO

From Liverpool’s perspective, Jones represents more than a line item on a balance sheet. He is a homegrown midfielder who has emerged through the academy system and, when fit, has contributed regularly in high intensity fixtures. His technical security, positional flexibility and understanding of the club’s tactical demands make him a valuable squad component.

Whether Liverpool choose to renew, renegotiate or listen to offers will hinge on both sporting and financial considerations. The decision will not be taken lightly.

Giovanni Leoni Situation Far Less Straightforward

Inter’s reported interest in Giovanni Leoni appears more speculative. Liverpool invested around €35 million to sign the young defender from Parma, signalling a long term view. His debut campaign, however, was cruelly interrupted by a cruciate ligament tear suffered on his first start, limiting him to just 81 minutes this season.

Given the scale of that investment and the minimal opportunity supporters have had to assess him in competitive action, a permanent exit this summer would be surprising. More realistic would be a structured development pathway, potentially including a carefully selected loan once fully fit.

Photo: IMAGO

Selling now would represent a significant risk in terms of lost upside, particularly for a player recruited with projection in mind. Liverpool’s recruitment model has consistently shown patience with young assets, especially those secured at considerable cost.

Summer Strategy Taking Shape at Anfield

As the window approaches, external interest in Liverpool’s squad is inevitable. Success breeds attention, and Inter’s reported approach fits a wider pattern of European clubs scanning for value and potential leverage.

Credit must go to Corriere dello Sport for bringing these developments to light. Whether talks progress beyond early positioning remains to be seen, but Liverpool’s hierarchy will already have mapped out multiple scenarios.

Much may depend on Jones’ contract trajectory and Leoni’s rehabilitation timeline. What is clear is that any movement will be part of a broader recalibration under Slot, rather than reactive business driven solely by incoming interest.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Curtis Jones has often divided opinion, yet he remains one of the few academy graduates to establish himself in a competitive midfield. Allowing him to enter the final year of his deal without clarity would feel like a failure of planning. If Inter truly are circling again, Liverpool must either secure an extension swiftly or extract maximum value. Drifting into a cut price scenario would be avoidable.

As for Giovanni Leoni, talk of a return to Italy so soon after arrival feels premature. Supporters have barely seen him. Writing off a €35 million investment after 81 minutes would contradict the patient model the club has championed in recent seasons.

There is also a broader concern. Liverpool are in a period of transition under Arne Slot. Stability matters. Moving multiple squad players while still bedding in a relatively new managerial approach carries risk.

Inter’s interest may be genuine, but Liverpool should dictate terms, not respond to them.