Report: Liverpool ‘Expected’ to Make a Move to Sign £40m Premier League Defender in 2025 | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Pursuit of Milos Kerkez: A New Left-Back on the Horizon?

Liverpool’s search for a new left-back has intensified, with Bournemouth’s rising star Milos Kerkez emerging as a prime target. Sources close to TeamTalk reveal that the Reds, under the guidance of manager Arne Slot, have been meticulously scouting the 20-year-old Hungarian international, viewing him as a long-term successor to Andy Robertson. With Robertson now 30 and his form fluctuating, Liverpool are keen to inject fresh competition into the left-back position.

The Merseyside club’s interest in Kerkez underscores their ambition to strengthen their backline as they push to maintain their title contention this season. Currently sitting just one point behind Manchester City, Liverpool are in a strong position, yet the need for defensive reinforcements has not gone unnoticed.

Why Kerkez Could Be Key for Liverpool

Kerkez’s attributes make him a standout candidate for Liverpool’s left-back role. At just 20 years old, he has already demonstrated his ability to compete at the Premier League level, which, according to TeamTalk, puts him in good stead for a club of Liverpool’s stature. The article highlights that “Liverpool view Kerkez as a potential long-term replacement for Robertson,” and his combination of youth and experience makes him a compelling choice.

Photo: IMAGO

Bournemouth, who managed to hold on to Kerkez during the previous transfer window despite considerable interest, are aware that retaining him may not be viable much longer. The TEAMtalk article reports that Bournemouth “expect this will be Kerkez’s final season at the club” and are anticipating bids as early as January 2025. Liverpool appear to be in a “good position” to secure Kerkez’s signature, which could mark a pivotal step in Slot’s plans for the club.

Liverpool’s Transfer Focus: Alexander-Arnold and the Winger Search

While Kerkez’s potential acquisition excites Liverpool supporters, the club is also focusing on other key areas. Securing Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future remains a priority for Liverpool’s board, with his current contract nearing its end. TeamTalk’s sources indicate that Real Madrid is closely monitoring the England international, eyeing him for a possible free transfer.

“Liverpool are confident of tying Alexander-Arnold down to a new contract before January,” the article states. The looming transfer threat from Real Madrid adds urgency to the negotiations, and Liverpool fans will be watching anxiously to see if Alexander-Arnold chooses to remain at Anfield.

Additionally, with Mo Salah’s contract also running out, Liverpool are reportedly assessing winger options for next season. From Bayern Munich’s Leroy Sane to Borussia Dortmund’s Karim Adeyemi, several high-profile names are on Liverpool’s radar. The article cites TeamTalk’s report that “Real Sociedad’s Takefusa Kubo” is a key name linked to Anfield, alongside Brentford’s Bryan Mbeumo. Both players would bring creativity and depth, a quality Liverpool will need as they potentially part ways with Salah.

Competing Interests for Kerkez: United’s Interest a Potential Obstacle?

Liverpool may face competition in the race for Kerkez, notably from Manchester United, who are also in the market for a new left-back. Injuries to Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia have left United thin in defence, and they have previously shown interest in the Bournemouth star, albeit stepping back due to Bournemouth’s firm £40m valuation.

United’s presence in the race adds a competitive edge to the situation, but Liverpool’s proactive scouting and targeted interest could give them a crucial advantage. Kerkez’s “Premier League experience” at such a young age, as noted in the article, could sway him toward Anfield if Liverpool manage to fend off United and secure his services.

Slot’s Vision for Liverpool: Balancing Experience and Youth

With Arne Slot’s tenure still in its early stages, his transfer moves have been focused on rejuvenating Liverpool’s squad with promising talent while retaining key experienced players. Slot’s vision appears to emphasize a blend of youth and experience, allowing the club to stay competitive in the Premier League and maintain depth across all positions.

Photo: IMAGO

The pursuit of Kerkez aligns with this strategy, bringing in a young yet seasoned Premier League player who can learn alongside veterans like Robertson. Additionally, resolving contract situations with players like Alexander-Arnold will be crucial for Slot’s Liverpool project, ensuring that the club’s core remains intact.

“Kerkez is viewed as a player who has the potential to play at the top of the game,” according to TeamTalk’s sources, which perfectly fits Slot’s long-term vision of building a team with depth, skill, and sustainability. If Liverpool can secure both Kerkez and Alexander-Arnold, they’ll set a solid foundation to contend on both domestic and European fronts.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

The possibility of Milos Kerkez joining Liverpool has sparked considerable excitement among fans. At 20, he represents the kind of dynamic youth injection that Liverpool’s defence could greatly benefit from. The timing couldn’t be better, either; with Robertson now 30 and occasionally struggling against faster opponents, competition on the left flank is sorely needed.

Many supporters feel that the young Hungarian’s addition could help the squad remain solid in an increasingly competitive league. Kerkez’s experience in the Premier League at such a young age suggests he wouldn’t take long to adapt to Liverpool’s style, especially under Slot’s progressive, high-press system. His speed, vision, and ability to read the game would undoubtedly make him a valuable asset.

The bigger question among fans, however, remains Trent Alexander-Arnold’s future. His potential departure would be a huge loss, given his role in shaping Liverpool’s modern playstyle. However, Liverpool fans are hopeful that the club’s recent investment in defensive prospects like Kerkez is a sign of a larger plan to strengthen their squad’s future, regardless of any potential star departures.