Kerkez Absent from Hungary Squad as Liverpool Transfer Nears Final Stage | OneFootball

Liverpool Target Milos Kerkez Ruled Out of Hungary Clash Amid Transfer Talks

As Hungary prepare to host Sweden in a friendly at the Puskás Arena, the spotlight has shifted from the pitch to the absence of two key figures. As reported by Hungarian outlet M4 Sport, head coach Marco Rossi confirmed on Thursday that Milos Kerkez and Barnabás Varga will miss the fixture, though no specific reasons were given. Rossi added only that he “could not count on the two players due to various problems.” For Liverpool supporters, the timing of this news adds intrigue, and perhaps some mild concern, as the club edges closer to sealing a deal for the exciting left-back.

Kerkez Transfer Nearing Completion

Kerkez’s absence comes just as his long-speculated move to Liverpool nears the final stage. Fabrizio Romano, a trusted source in the transfer market, has reported that “one more round of talks” is needed to finalise the agreement, with both Liverpool and current club Bournemouth optimistic about reaching a swift resolution.

Photo IMAGO

The 21-year-old has made no secret of his preference. Despite reported interest from Manchester City, Kerkez is understood to be prioritising a move to Anfield, a stance that will endear him to Liverpool fans even before he pulls on the red shirt. That decision to rebuff the Premier League champions in favour of joining Arne Slot’s squad speaks volumes about the project unfolding under the Dutchman’s guidance.

Kerkez’s enthusiasm has reportedly been “a driving force” in the negotiations. His rapid development and attacking dynamism have marked him as a modern full-back in the mould of Andy Robertson, whose long-term successor the Hungarian could very well be.

Injury Concern or Transfer Protocol?

The vague explanation of “various problems” offered by Rossi opens the door to speculation. Is Kerkez sidelined by a minor knock, or is this simply a precautionary step to avoid injury while contract talks continue? With transfer negotiations reaching a sensitive point, it wouldn’t be surprising if all parties preferred caution over risk, especially given Liverpool’s eagerness to avoid any complications.

Still, for Liverpool, any delay, even short term, can raise questions. The club has endured difficult experiences in the past with medical setbacks complicating deals. Fans will be hoping that this absence is administrative rather than medical, and that Kerkez arrives on Merseyside fully fit and ready to integrate into a squad chasing silverware on multiple fronts.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool supporters, the news of Milos Kerkez missing Hungary’s friendly will naturally prompt a degree of anxiety. The fear, of course, is that an injury could derail a move that has generated significant excitement among the fanbase. However, given the phrasing, “various problems”, and the timing of negotiations, it’s more plausible that this is a carefully managed absence rather than a cause for concern.

Kerkez’s preference for Liverpool over Manchester City speaks volumes. It’s a bold decision, and one that will resonate with fans who value loyalty, ambition, and character. The 21-year-old seems not only ready to embrace the challenge of Anfield but also to contribute immediately.

His potential signing also reflects well on the club’s recruitment under Arne Slot. In Kerkez, Liverpool would be adding not just a backup to Robertson, but a player who can push him, potentially succeed him, and help evolve the team’s shape from the left flank. His style suits Liverpool’s pressing game, and with European football returning to Anfield, depth in key positions will be critical.

Ultimately, unless new information emerges confirming an injury, fans should take comfort in the fact that this may simply be part of a broader plan to ensure the deal is closed without unnecessary risk. Milos Kerkez appears destined for Anfield, and Liverpool are better for it.