Liverpool Face Real Threat Over Huijsen and Kerkez | OneFootball

Real Madrid Intensify Pursuit of Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez

Spanish giants act swiftly in transfer race

Real Madrid have stepped up their interest in AFC Bournemouth duo Dean Huijsen and Milos Kerkez, both of whom have been heavily linked with Liverpool in recent months. TBR Football understands the Spanish club dispatched senior scouts to the Emirates Stadium to watch the pair in action during Bournemouth’s eye-catching 2-1 win over Arsenal — a move that signals Los Blancos’ growing intent.

The performance provided immediate justification for their interest. Huijsen, only 20, opened the scoring with a commanding header past Declan Rice, while Kerkez delivered yet another high-level display at left-back, continuing a season of consistent progress in the Premier League.

Real Madrid have admired Huijsen for some time, but Kerkez’s emergence has brought him firmly into their plans. According to sources close to the club, both players are now considered serious candidates to join the La Liga champions in the summer window.

Huijsen eyes Spain switch amid Premier League interest

Dean Huijsen’s preference for a move to Spain could prove pivotal in the transfer battle. “His dream destination is Spain,” TBR Football reports, and Real Madrid have maintained steady dialogue with his representatives over recent months. Despite Liverpool and Chelsea both having met with his camp — and the Reds thought to be particularly active — Madrid’s appeal remains unrivalled.

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Bournemouth are understood to be open to allowing Huijsen to leave this summer, with a £50 million release clause built into his contract. Structured payment terms, potentially in instalments, could make a deal more feasible for the Bernabéu club, whose defence is in the midst of a generational overhaul.

Chelsea, Arsenal, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur have all registered interest, but Real Madrid’s stature could ultimately be decisive.

Kerkez now firmly on Madrid’s shortlist

Milos Kerkez, who joined Bournemouth from AZ Alkmaar in 2023, has made rapid strides in England and is now firmly on Real Madrid’s radar as they explore reinforcements at left-back. The Hungarian international, 21, fits the profile Madrid are seeking — technically astute, tactically disciplined, and blessed with a fearless approach in both phases of play.

“Liverpool love Kerkez,” TBR Football reports, and internal discussions have taken place regarding a summer move. But with Madrid’s involvement now confirmed, the race could take a dramatic turn. Kerkez’s stock continues to rise and his performance against Arsenal only added weight to the growing hype.

Contingency plans in motion for Liverpool

Liverpool are well aware of the looming threat posed by Real Madrid. Should both Huijsen and Kerkez opt for Spain, the Merseyside club already have alternative targets lined up. Ajax’s Jorrel Hato, who has operated at left-back despite being a natural centre-half, has been scouted extensively.

Virgil van Dijk is a “big fan” of Hato, with the pair sharing international duties for the Netherlands. His versatility and composure have impressed Liverpool’s recruitment team.

Meanwhile, Fulham’s Antonee Robinson is another name under serious consideration. Some at Liverpool reportedly prefer Robinson’s Premier League experience to Kerkez’s potential, making him a viable option if the Bournemouth defender heads to Madrid.

It’s a pivotal moment in the transfer race. When Real Madrid enter the conversation, outcomes tend to shift — and Liverpool may find themselves needing to move swiftly to secure their targets.