Curtis Jones might be closer to leaving Liverpool than many supporters realise.
The academy graduate has caught the attention of Premier League rivals, with his Anfield future suddenly looking uncertain as we head into the summer window.
It's a development that would have seemed unthinkable just a few years back. Jones broke through as the poster boy for Liverpool's youth system, scoring that memorable winner against Everton in the FA Cup and looking every inch the future of our midfield.
But football moves quickly, and so does Arne Slot's thinking about his squad. The Dutchman inherited a midfielder who showed flashes of brilliance under Jurgen Klopp but never quite nailed down a consistent starting spot.
This season has been stop-start for Jones. Injuries haven't helped, but when fit, he's found himself fighting for minutes in a crowded midfield. Ryan Gravenberch has been a revelation, Alexis Mac Allister continues to impress, and Dominik Szoboszlai offers something different entirely.
The harsh reality is that Jones needs regular football at this stage of his career. He's 24 now, not the promising teenager we fell in love with. Standing still isn't an option when you should be hitting your peak years.
For Liverpool, it's a decision that goes beyond just Curtis Jones. Do we keep faith with a player who knows the club inside out but might never be more than a squad option? Or do we cash in while his value remains decent and use those funds elsewhere?
The summer window could provide answers sooner than anyone expects.
*This story is based on reporting by Anfield Index*
