Liverpool manager Arne Slot has reportedly given the green light for a move to sign Bournemouth’s in-form left-back Milos Kerkez. The Hungary international is expected to cost less than £40 million, making him an attractive target for the Reds.
Liverpool, who are currently 15 points clear at the top of the Premier League table following Arsenal’s stumble at Manchester United, are looking to strengthen their defense this summer. Questions have been raised about Andy Robertson’s recent performances, while understudy Kostas Tsimikas has also been linked with a potential departure from Anfield at the end of the season. These factors have heightened the need for Slot to bring in a new left-back.
Kerkez has been on Liverpool’s radar for months, thanks to his standout performances for Bournemouth this season. According to Fabrizio Romano, Slot has approved the pursuit of the 21-year-old as part of a three-player transfer shortlist. Liverpool’s interest is described as “genuine and concrete,” with contact expected to be made in the coming weeks regarding a potential move to Merseyside.
Bournemouth, who signed Kerkez in July 2023 for an undisclosed fee believed to be around £15 million, have yet to finalize their asking price. However, it is estimated that the left-back could be available for between £33.6 million and £37.8 million (€40 million to €45 million). In today’s inflated transfer market, such a fee could be seen as a bargain, especially for a player of Kerkez’s caliber.
The young defender has been one of the Premier League’s top performers this season and still has three years remaining on his contract. When recently asked about Liverpool’s interest, Kerkez attempted to downplay the speculation but hinted that he would be open to joining the Carabao Cup finalists.
As Liverpool continue to dominate the league, Slot’s focus on bolstering the squad with players like Kerkez could ensure the club remains competitive in the seasons to come.
