Liverpool target World Cup star to fill midfield gap as Jones costs £40m this summer

After a disappointing title defence, Liverpool face a midfield void as Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister failed to meet the standards of the 2025 title‑winning season, while 25‑year‑old Curtis Jones is valued at £40 million after two Inter Milan bids were rejected.

Andoni Iraola’s side has been left with a clear shortage in midfield creativity after the under‑performance of Ryan Gravenberch and Alexis Mac Allister. The club also faces the possible departure of Curtis Jones, who enters the final year of his contract and is attracting heavy interest.

Liverpool have already turned down two offers from Serie A champions Inter Milan for Jones, signalling a willingness to retain the player. Nevertheless, the Reds have placed a £40 million price tag on Jones, indicating a high valuation.

Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi, born in 2007, has emerged as a prime target to fill the midfield void. The French club has set an €80 million asking price for the 18‑year‑old, reflecting his rising market value.

Transfer journalist Nicolo Schira wrote on X that “Manchester City and Liverpool are leading the race to try to sign Lille midfielder Ayyoub Bouaddi (born in 2007).” He added that “Positive first talks with his agent. LOSC are now waiting for official bids.”

Bouaddi was a standout performer at this year’s World Cup, helping Morocco reach the last‑16 after a penalty‑shootout victory over the Netherlands last night. His World Cup exposure has heightened interest from clubs seeking a dynamic midfielder.

Manchester City have already secured Elliot Anderson from Nottingham Forest for £116 million and remain keen on Newcastle United’s Sandro Tonali, valued around £100 million. Liverpool must now decide whether to meet Lille’s €80 million demand, while competition from City and the need to secure a formal offer remain the main obstacles.