Andoni Iraola hold showdown transfer talks with £35m midfielder

Liverpool still have got some transfer uncertainty around several midfielders.

Harvey Elliott returned to the AXA Training Centre unsure of his future. Aston Villa reneged on a commitment to sign the 23-year-old for £35m - meaning he is in limbo with only one year left on his deal.

The outgoing Premier League champions will also need to consider carefully what to do with Stefan Bajcetic. He too is out of contract in 2027 and could benefit from first-team minutes as he recovers from a long-term injury.

But it’s unlikely that Andoni Iraola’s side will consider a loan move - because he would be out of contract by the time that temporary spell ends.

Curtis Jones' fate to be decided

One more Liverpool midfielder whose fate is to be decided is Curtis Jones.

The two-time Premier League title-winning midfielder is also out of contract in 2027 and if no new deal is agreed then he too could be off.

Inter Milan want the 25-year-old - but have so far refused to meet Richard Hughes’ £35m asking price.

Although there are signs of a compromise being reached before the end of the window there remains the possibility that Jones is a Liverpool player when it slams shut on September 1.

Iraola hold talks with Curtis Jones

If that happens then a new contract is a possibility - protecting Liverpool from losing Jones on a free next summer.

It’s now been claimed in the Daily Mail that the six-cap England international has met with new coach Iraola in an effort to trash out his future.

“Liverpool fly to the United States next Monday for a three-leg pre-season tour with fringe players eager to impress the new boss,” the report reads.

“Harvey Elliott was training alongside some youngsters, while Iraola had a first chat with midfielder Curtis Jones.

“The Englishman has been subject to interest from Inter Milan – who had a bid turned down last month – and Nottingham Forest, among others as Liverpool value him at £35million.”

Curtis Jones could sign new deal

Iraola is understood to appreciate the homegrown player’s talents and has talked up the importance of having a Scouser in the squad.

Let’s see how this develops.

Liverpool would offload Jones if the right bid materialises from Inter - who have endured a nightmare summer thus far.

However should he remain beyond the window - and in the meantime impress Iraola in preseason - then a long-term stay could be on the cards.