Jermaine Pennant has offered Liverpool a clear message regarding Curtis Jones’ future, urging the club to keep hold of the midfielder as speculation continues to grow over what could be a pivotal summer at Anfield.
Jones has found himself at the centre of increasing debate in recent weeks, with questions over his role, contract situation and long-term place in Arne Slot’s squad all coming into focus as Liverpool prepare for another period of change.
Speaking to talkSPORT, he said: “We should keep him just for his versatility, it’s great. You can put him anywhere in the midfield or at right back. You need that.
“He’s a local lad, he knows and loves the club and he can help a lot of the players understand certain things as well.
“Ultimately, the last few games, he’s been phenomenal – one of the top performers.
“So, we should offer him a contract because this squad is dwindling. There are a lot of key players leaving and you need to keep the core. He’s a local lad and we have already lost Trent [Alexander-Arnold].
“Offer him a contract, and ultimately, it’s up to him if he wants to go somewhere where he can play week in, week out, but all the club can do is offer.”
? Curtis Jones could leave Liverpool in the summer as talks over new deal have been stalling for months.
??? Inter have been interested since January and remain keen, depending on price tag.
Premier League clubs also involved.
??? https://t.co/IFvtzHmHa1 pic.twitter.com/re1EOE6dku
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) April 30, 2026
He believes the midfielder offers value beyond just his technical ability, particularly given his flexibility to play in multiple positions when needed.
Jones has often been deployed in different roles this season, including deeper midfield positions and even emergency cover elsewhere, something Pennant views as a major asset for a squad undergoing restructuring.
One of the main reasons Pennant believes Liverpool should retain Jones is his adaptability.
Rather than being limited to a single role, Jones has regularly stepped into various positions depending on tactical demands, giving Arne Slot additional options during a demanding campaign.
That flexibility has become increasingly important for Liverpool, especially with squad turnover expected and several senior players potentially moving on in the summer window.
Jones’ future is also complicated by his contract situation, with his current deal moving into a crucial phase.
Reports suggest Liverpool are yet to reach a full agreement over an extension, leaving open the possibility of either a new deal or a potential sale if no breakthrough is reached.
That uncertainty has naturally attracted outside interest, with several clubs monitoring the situation closely as the summer window approaches.
Role under Arne Slot under scrutiny
Under Arne Slot, Jones has not always been a guaranteed starter in his preferred midfield role, often competing with established names in a crowded central unit.
While he has remained a useful squad option, his lack of a fixed position has raised questions about where he fits long-term in the Dutchman’s system.
That uncertainty is a key reason why his future has become a talking point among pundits and supporters alike.
