Milos Kerkez is edging towards a £45million move to Liverpool as the Reds’ busy summer window continues. They have already signed Jeremie Frimpong and are closing in on his former Bayer Leverkusen team-mate Florian Wirtz. Frimpong arrives to help replace Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has joined Real Madrid. However, boss Arne Slot is also keen on adding a left-back to his squad this summer to provide better competition for Andy Robertson.
Despite playing a key role in two Premier League title wins and the 2019 Champions League victory, Robertson’s performances have dipped recently. His current backup, Kostas Tsimikas, has not convincingly shown he can be a long-term option. The Reds seem set to close a deal for Kerkez, who has made a mark at Bournemouth.
Whether Milos Kerkez will come in as competition for Robertson or to take his place remains uncertain, especially with the Scotland captain attracting increasing interest from Atletico Madrid. Liverpool views Kerkez as a long-term player, with reports suggesting he will be offered a five-year contract, along with a significant pay rise upon joining the champions.
Milos Kerkez has expressed a clear preference for Liverpool as his destination. Negotiations have been ongoing for three weeks, with Reds sporting director Richard Hughes leading the talks. Bournemouth has kept its asking price, although there is ‘increasing hope’ that a deal will be reached soon. Given that Adrien Truffert has already been signed by the Cherries as a substitute, Liverpool is expected to spend £45 million for Milos Kerkez.
One detail still to be decided is the shirt number Milos Kerkez will wear at Anfield. Currently, the Hungary international dons No.3 at Bournemouth, but that number belongs to Wataru Endo at Liverpool. Endo has faced challenges in securing playing time since Klopp’s arrival and may depart this summer. If he leaves or shifts to the vacant No.6 shirt, Kerkez could claim the No.3 jersey.
In the midst of this, Robertson has stated he is ready for the challenge Milos Kerkez will bring. He mentioned to BBC Scotland earlier this month: “We’re not naive; it seems like a deal could potentially happen. But until that’s certain, I haven’t given it much thought. I believe in myself and my abilities, and that motivates me. I’ve had eight incredible years at Liverpool, winning trophies and being a consistent part of the team, which I take immense pride in.
