Milos Kerkez is reportedly inclined to join Liverpool over either of Manchester’s leading clubs if he chooses to leave Bournemouth this year.
Liverpool has increasingly focused on bolstering their left-back position and has been tracking a number of players, such as Patrick Dorgu, El Hadji Malick Diouf, and Antonee Robinson.
These potential signings align with the club’s goal of addressing a concern shared by many fans. Andy Robertson, once regarded as one of the top left-backs globally, has seen a noticeable decline in his performances, while Kostas Tsimikas has struggled to secure a regular starting role.
For Liverpool fans, there are encouraging signs in their pursuit of Kerkez. According to The i Paper, Liverpool, along with Manchester United and Manchester City, has made contact with the player’s representatives. However, Kerkez seems to prefer a move to Anfield.
A major factor in his preference is Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s sporting director, who played a key role in facilitating Kerkez’s transfer to Bournemouth 18 months ago. This connection could be crucial as Liverpool competes with their rivals for the 21-year-old’s signature.
Though Bournemouth reportedly has no intention of selling Kerkez in the January transfer window, a significant offer—possibly around £50 million—could lead them to reconsider.
Should Liverpool secure the Hungarian international, it would be a major achievement for Hughes, who has faced criticism during his tenure as sporting director.
With a quiet summer transfer window, limited activity in January, and ongoing contract discussions for key players like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, Hughes has faced criticism from Reds supporters. Bringing in Kerkez could silence his detractors and restore faith in his position.
Kerkez has earned praise for his performances at Bournemouth, even though his underlying stats aren’t as remarkable, according to FBref. Analysts like Jamie Carragher have noted his aggressive playing style, comparing him to Robertson in his early years at Liverpool.
The Athletic mentions that improving the left-back position is a priority for Liverpool, although such a move is more likely to take place in the summer. In the meantime, manager Arne Slot will depend on Tsimikas to step up and hope Robertson can return to his best form.
Should Liverpool secure Kerkez’s signing, it would be a major victory, particularly over the Manchester clubs. It would also provide Kerkez with the opportunity to grow under a club that values energetic, attacking full-backs, potentially reigniting Liverpool’s dominance on the left flank
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