Milos Kerkez is reportedly leaning toward joining Liverpool rather than either of Manchester’s top clubs if he decides to leave Bournemouth this year.
Liverpool has shown growing interest in strengthening their left-back position and has been monitoring several players, including Patrick Dorgu, El Hadji Malick Diouf, and Antonee Robinson.
These options reflect the club’s intent to address an area of concern for many fans. Andy Robertson, once considered among the world’s best left-backs, has seen a noticeable dip in form, while Kostas Tsimikas has struggled to establish himself as a consistent starter.
Encouragingly for Liverpool fans, there are positive signs in their pursuit of Kerkez. Reports from The i Paper suggest that Liverpool, along with Manchester United and Manchester City, has reached out to the player’s representatives. However, Kerkez appears to favor a move to Anfield.
A key factor influencing his preference is Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s sporting director, who was instrumental in facilitating Kerkez’s transfer to Bournemouth 18 months ago. This connection could prove decisive as Liverpool competes with their rivals for the 21-year-old’s signature.
While Bournemouth reportedly has no plans to sell Kerkez during the January transfer window, a substantial offer—potentially in the region of £50 million—could force them to reconsider.
If Liverpool successfully acquires the Hungarian international, it would mark a significant win for Hughes, whose tenure as sporting director has faced criticism.
With a quiet summer transfer window, minimal activity in January, and ongoing contract negotiations for key players such as Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, Hughes has come under fire from Reds fans. Securing Kerkez’s services could help silence his critics and restore confidence in his role.
Kerkez has been widely praised for his performances at Bournemouth, despite not boasting standout underlying stats, according to FBref. Pundits like Jamie Carragher have highlighted his aggression, drawing comparisons to Robertson’s dynamic style during his early years at Liverpool.
The Athletic notes that improving the left-back position is a priority for Liverpool, although such a move may be more likely in the summer. In the interim, manager Arne Slot will rely on Tsimikas to step up and hope Robertson can rediscover his best form.
If Liverpool manages to sign Kerkez, it would signal a major triumph, particularly over the Manchester clubs. Additionally, it would provide Kerkez with the opportunity to further develop under a club that values dynamic, aggressive full-backs, possibly reigniting Liverpool’s left-flank dominance.
