Fabrizio Romano: Liverpool are ‘Leading the Race’ to Sign 21-year-old Defender | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Left-Back Revolution? Milos Kerkez Transfer Talks Heating Up

Fabrizio Romano’s latest update has set pulses racing around Anfield. According to the renowned transfer journalist, Liverpool are “leading the race” to sign Bournemouth’s 21-year-old left-back Milos Kerkez, in what could be another shrewd move by sporting director Richard Hughes.

Milos Kerkez Keen on Anfield Move

In his latest appearance on GIVEMESPORT’s Market Madness podcast, Fabrizio Romano revealed:“Liverpool are leading the race, in very positive contact with the agent of the player… The player would be very keen on the move, so the conversation is positive also in this case.”

That agent, Fali Ramadani, is no stranger to the Reds either. He also represents Federico Chiesa and already has an established relationship with Liverpool. These existing ties, along with Hughes’ past connection to Kerkez during the defender’s move to Bournemouth in 2023, are proving beneficial.

Although Romano insists the deal is “not in the final stages yet,” the signs are promising. Personal terms are already being discussed, and direct contact between Liverpool and Bournemouth has reportedly begun regarding the price tag.

Liverpool’s Momentum in the Market

This summer has already seen Liverpool act swiftly in the market. A deal for Bayer Leverkusen’s Jeremie Frimpong is all but complete, while there is strong interest in his teammate Florian Wirtz. Now, with Kerkez in their sights, the club seems intent on strengthening both flanks with young, high-potential talent.

Romano’s note of caution is worth heeding: “There are more clubs involved… so we have to see what happens.” But despite the competition, Liverpool appear to be further along in negotiations than their rivals.

A clear difference this summer is Hughes’ decisiveness. After a relatively quiet first transfer window in 2024, he seems determined to strike early and capitalise on the club’s Premier League-winning momentum under Arne Slot.

Kerkez Fits the Slot System

Kerkez’s style of play fits perfectly with Arne Slot’s high-energy, attacking approach. The Hungarian international has shown great composure, pace, and defensive awareness since joining Bournemouth. At only 21, he still has plenty of room for growth, making him a long-term investment as well as a short-term asset.

As Romano says, “Liverpool also want to add one more left-back to the squad.” Given Andy Robertson’s advancing age and Kostas Tsimikas’ inconsistency, competition and depth in that area is crucial.

Photo: IMAGO

Securing both Frimpong and Kerkez would massively refresh Liverpool’s full-back options. Both players bring attacking flair, defensive discipline, and the hunger to compete at the highest level.

Richard Hughes has the Edge in the Deal

What’s quietly underpinning this pursuit is the web of connections surrounding the deal. Kerkez’s agent is well-trusted by the Liverpool hierarchy, while Richard Hughes was instrumental in bringing the youngster to English football. These small but significant factors could prove decisive.

The added advantage? Kerkez wants this move. Romano confirms: “What I can guarantee is that Kerkez would be very happy to join Liverpool.” That level of motivation can often be the difference in a drawn-out transfer battle.

And while Bournemouth will understandably want to maximise their return on a player they signed just a year ago, the progress already made in discussions suggests Liverpool are serious and efficient in their pursuit.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

What a window this could turn out to be. With Jeremie Frimpong nearly signed and Liverpool pushing for Milos Kerkez, this isn’t just squad building, it’s squad evolution. Under Arne Slot, the club isn’t simply reacting to the departure of Jurgen Klopp – they’re shaping a new dynasty.

Kerkez would be a dream fit. He’s young, hungry, technically solid, and he wants to be here. That last part matters. When players are eager to wear the shirt, it often shows on the pitch. Just picture a future line-up with Frimpong and Kerkez bombing down the flanks at Anfield – it’s mouth-watering stuff.

The Hughes-Slot combo is working. After winning the league in Slot’s debut season, Liverpool are not sitting back. They’re acting like champions – proactive, purposeful, and fearless in the market. If they land Kerkez, it would be yet another sign that the club is planning not just to stay on top, but to dominate for years to come.