Curtis Jones’ 2025/26 season underlined his growing importance to Liverpool, even in a squad packed with midfield talent.
The academy graduate made 49 appearances in all competitions, showing he remained a trusted option across multiple roles.
While not always a guaranteed starter, Jones was regularly used in important matches where his ability to retain possession, press aggressively and carry the ball through midfield proved valuable.
His versatility allowed him to operate as a No.8, a deeper midfielder or even in advanced areas, giving Liverpool flexibility during a demanding yet disappointing campaign.
That consistency has now placed him firmly on Nottingham Forest’s radar.
Forest are actively searching for a replacement for Elliot Anderson following his blockbuster £116 million move to Man City, a deal that has left a major gap in their midfield.
Anderson’s energy, ball-carrying and creativity were central to Forest’s system, and replacing those qualities is now a top priority.
Liverpool set Curtis Jones price after Nottingham Forest make move
According to journalist Luca Cerchione, Forest have ‘swooped in’ on the 25-year-old, but Liverpool are holding firm.
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
Luca Cerchione is an independent journalist who covers transfer news, often focusing on Italian and European markets. While he occasionally reports on Premier League stories, his reliability is considered less proven compared to top-tier reporters. His updates are generally treated as early information that requires confirmation from more established sources. |
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Finances |
Liverpool’s £40m valuation is steep considering Jones’ contract length, but his homegrown status and Premier League experience have arguably drived his price up. For Forest, the fee is achievable after receiving £116m for Elliot Anderson, but still represents a major investment. The deal would likely include structured payments rather than a full upfront fee to ease financial pressure. |
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Insight |
Jones is a Liverpool academy graduate who has developed into a technically strong, versatile midfielder. Known for his close control, ball carrying and composure, he has improved defensively and tactically in recent seasons. His ability to operate in multiple midfield roles has made him a dependable option at Premier League level. |
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Impact |
Jones could help Forest rebuild their midfield. His ability to carry the ball and link play would partially replace Anderson’s influence, while his experience would bring stability. With consistent starts, he could elevate his game further and become a central figure in Forest’s midfield structure. |
His report states the Reds are demanding around £40 million to consider selling Jones, despite his contract only running until June 2027, giving Liverpool just two windows to make any money off a sale.
The interest makes sense, but £40m for a player who will be out of contract this time next year would be a bold move by Evangelos Marinakis.
Why Forest are targeting Curtis Jones
Jones offers a similar profile to Anderson in some areas, particularly his ability to drive forward with the ball and link play between defence and attack.
Over the last season, he has shown improved decision-making and greater tactical awareness, becoming more reliable without losing the natural flair that made him stand out as a youngster.
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For Forest, this would represent a shift towards proven Premier League quality.
Rather than gambling on an untested replacement, they would be bringing in a player who has already performed at a high level across multiple competitions for years.
However, Liverpool’s stance could prove decisive.
They are not averse to selling him, but his homegrown status and continued development make him a valuable squad member, even if he is not always first choice.
Jones would be a strong signing for Forest if they can agree a deal.
He may not replicate Anderson immediately, but his technical ability and experience could help to stabilise Oliver Glasner‘s midfield.
