Fabrizio Romano Confirms Liverpool’s Interest in £40m Premier League Defender | OneFootball

Liverpool Eyeing Milos Kerkez Amidst Transfer Tug-of-War

Liverpool’s search for a long-term successor to Andy Robertson has led them to Milos Kerkez, the promising 21-year-old left-back currently making waves at Bournemouth. Renowned journalist Fabrizio Romano revealed that Liverpool, alongside Manchester United, are monitoring the Hungary international’s development closely.

The stakes are high, with both clubs keen to secure a transformative talent, but Liverpool’s connections and strategic approach could give them the edge.

Milos Kerkez: A Rising Star

Kerkez’s meteoric rise in the Premier League has turned heads, not least that of Liverpool’s sporting director, Richard Hughes. Hughes, who joined Liverpool from Bournemouth, is intimately familiar with Kerkez’s abilities.

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Fabrizio Romano confirmed Liverpool’s interest, stating:

“Liverpool [sporting] director Richard Hughes was at Bournemouth and obviously knows the player so well and the excellent skills and qualities of the player. So, they are monitoring Kerkez.”

Liverpool are reportedly impressed by Kerkez’s composure, dynamism, and versatility, traits that mirror Robertson’s meteoric development under the Anfield spotlight. However, as Romano clarified, the Reds are still in the scouting phase:

“At the moment we are at the scouting stage… it doesn’t mean they are going to bid for him any time soon because we know how Liverpool take their time before doing anything.”

This measured approach reflects Liverpool’s reputation for thoroughness in the transfer market, especially under the guidance of Arne Slot.

Photo IMAGO

The Need for a Left-Back Revolution

Andy Robertson’s injury struggles this season have highlighted Liverpool’s need for depth in the left-back position. Kostas Tsimikas, though a reliable understudy, has yet to prove he can be the long-term heir to Robertson’s throne.

Kerkez offers an enticing solution. At just 21, he’s shown a maturity and consistency that belies his age. His performances for Bournemouth and the Hungarian national team demonstrate his ability to adapt to different tactical systems—a crucial quality for Slot’s high-intensity, possession-based style.

Meanwhile, Manchester United’s pursuit of Kerkez adds an intriguing layer to this transfer saga. Under Ruben Amorim, United are seeking to resolve their left-back conundrum amidst persistent injury concerns for Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia.

“For Liverpool he is for sure a player they appreciate, for sure they like him,” Romano noted.

But with competition from Old Trafford looming, Liverpool must weigh their timing carefully to avoid being left in the lurch.

Photo: IMAGO

Will Liverpool Make Their Move?

According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool have already identified Kerkez as a top target for 2025, putting them in a strong position. Bournemouth, however, are under no illusion about the interest in their prized defender. The Cherries are bracing for offers, and a January approach cannot be ruled out, especially if injuries persist.

Richard Hughes’ connection to Bournemouth adds an extra dimension to the transfer narrative. While Hughes has previously avoided raiding his former club, Kerkez’s potential seems too valuable to ignore. As Romano highlighted:

“The process to monitor and follow the player is a reality. But for a player that Richard Hughes knows so well and he knows the potential of this boy who is really appreciated around Europe.”

The challenge now lies in Bournemouth’s valuation of the Hungarian star. With no price tag disclosed yet, Liverpool must be prepared for a potentially hefty negotiation process.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans will be buzzing with the prospect of Milos Kerkez joining the squad. At just 21, he already shows the kind of promise that could elevate Liverpool’s defence to another level. His high energy, attacking mindset, and solid defensive awareness align perfectly with Arne Slot’s progressive football philosophy.

Supporters are likely to view Kerkez as the ideal candidate to ease the transition away from Robertson, whose absence has been keenly felt this season. Slot’s system demands full-backs who can attack with vigour while maintaining positional discipline, and Kerkez ticks both boxes.

Moreover, Richard Hughes’ insider knowledge could give Liverpool a competitive advantage in a crowded transfer race. However, the timing of any move will be crucial. Fans will hope Liverpool act decisively before Manchester United—or any other suitor—steps in.

The potential signing of Kerkez also raises interesting questions about Liverpool’s broader transfer strategy. Are the Reds willing to break their traditional restraint for a talent like Kerkez? And if so, what does this say about their ambitions under Slot?

Regardless, this report underscores Liverpool’s determination to future-proof their squad while maintaining their competitive edge. Kerkez might just be the missing piece in a rapidly evolving puzzle.