Jones has emerged as a potential transfer target amid growing uncertainty over his long-term future on Merseyside. While the academy graduate enjoyed his most active season in terms of minutes during the 2025/26 campaign, he was unable to cement a regular place in Arne Slot's preferred midfield setup and was often used in unfamiliar roles.

Speaking about Inter's transfer plans on Sunday, Ausilio made it clear that the club's admiration for Jones is genuine.

"Curtis Jones, we are paying attention to him," Ausilio told reporters.

"We didn't hide. We understand what the developments will be."

The comments are the strongest indication yet that Inter are seriously considering a move for the Liverpool midfielder, who is entering the final year of his contract and has been linked with an exit for several months.

Ausilio also acknowledged the challenge of competing financially with Premier League clubs, suggesting Inter's approach relies on building personal relationships rather than simply offering bigger contracts.

"It's normal that when you compete with powers like the English teams have become today, you have to put something extra into it," he said.

"Where economic power doesn't reach, ingenuity does. We get there with our Italian roots, sometimes we get there first with strategies, we try to be much more empathetic because we like to get to know the players and their families."

Inter's interest comes at a pivotal moment in Jones' career. The 25-year-old has made 228 appearances for Liverpool, scoring 22 goals and winning two Premier League titles, an FA Cup and two League Cups. However, he has struggled to establish himself as an undisputed first-choice midfielder.

The arrival of new Liverpool head coach Andoni Iraola could prove decisive in determining Jones' future, with the Spaniard expected to reshape the squad this off-season.

Recent comments from Liverpool teammate Federico Chiesa have also added intrigue to the speculation. The Italian revealed that Jones has sought his advice about life in Serie A.

"Jones only asked me how life is in Italy," Chiesa told Gazzetta dello Sport.

"I told him you live very well and the weather is better than Liverpool. Jones is technically very strong, Inter are right to think about him."

Despite the growing interest from Italy, Liverpool are not believed to be actively looking to sell the midfielder, though Inter's public pursuit has intensified speculation over whether he could be tempted by a new challenge.

Collins Sichenje looks to Kenya's 2027 AFCON campaign with optimism