Inter Milan are increasing pressure on Liverpool as they attempt to sign Curtis Jones for a fee below the Reds' valuation.
The England international is entering the final year of his contract, giving the Italian champions reason to believe an agreement can be reached.
Inter need another mobile midfielder who can carry the ball, press aggressively and operate in several roles, particularly with Davide Frattesi's future uncertain. Their window has already added defensive experience through John Stones and midfield depth with Aleksandar Stanković, but Jones would provide greater Premier League intensity and technical security.
Inter are prepared to raise their offer to around €35 million after seeing previous proposals rejected, while Liverpool are demanding closer to €40 million.
The gap between the clubs is narrowing, although Liverpool remain reluctant to lose an academy graduate valued by head coach Andoni Iraola. Jones would provide Cristian Chivu with an energetic and press-resistant option alongside Nicolò Barella and Hakan Çalhanoğlu.
His potential arrival could also make it easier for Inter to approve Frattesi's departure after earlier interest from Nottingham Forest.
Premier League interest could force Inter to act quickly, as Tottenham have also monitored Jones, while Arsenal have been mentioned as potential rivals. This may weaken Inter's negotiating position, making it more difficult to secure the desired deal at a lower price.
