In a move that could bolster their defensive ranks, Liverpool Football Club is on the verge of sealing a deal for Bournemouth’s highly rated left-back, Milos Kerkez, with just one more round of negotiations needed to finalise the transfer.
Sources close to the clubs confirmed that personal terms with the 20-year-old Hungarian international were agreed upon last week, paving the way for what could be a significant coup for the Reds as they aim to strengthen their squad for the ongoing Premier League campaign.
The transfer saga, which has been quietly brewing in recent weeks, has reached a critical juncture, with both clubs now focused on hammering out the final details of the agreement.
Liverpool’s pursuit of Kerkez underscores their intent to address long-term needs at left-back, where Andrew Robertson, while still a key figure, has faced questions about form and fitness in recent seasons.
Kerkez, known for his pace, defensive tenacity, and attacking flair, has emerged as one of the Premier League’s most promising young talents since joining Bournemouth from AZ Alkmaar in the summer of 2023.
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Liverpool’s interest in Kerkez comes as no surprise to those following the club’s transfer strategy under manager Arne Slot.
Since taking the helm, Slot has prioritised building a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts, with an emphasis on young, versatile players who can grow into key roles.
Kerkez, who has earned plaudits for his performances on the south coast, fits the bill perfectly. His ability to contribute both defensively and offensively aligns with Liverpool’s high-intensity, full-back-driven system.
Sources indicate that negotiations between Liverpool and Bournemouth have progressed smoothly, with the two clubs now focusing on finalising the transfer fee and any potential add-ons.
While the exact figure remains undisclosed, reports suggest Bournemouth could command a fee in the region of £40-50 million for their star defender, a significant profit on the £15.5 million they paid to secure him from AZ Alkmaar just 18 months ago.
Bournemouth’s willingness to negotiate reflects their pragmatic approach, though they are expected to drive a HARD bargain for a player who has become integral to their setup under manager Andoni Iraola.
Kerkez’s Rise to Prominence
Milos Kerkez’s journey to becoming one of Europe’s most coveted young defenders has been meteoric. Born in Vrbas, Serbia, to Serbian and Hungarian parents, Kerkez opted to represent Hungary internationally, earning 13 caps by the age of 20.
His professional career began at Hungarian side Győri ETO before a move to AC Milan’s youth academy in 2021.
However, it was at AZ Alkmaar in the Netherlands where Kerkez truly announced himself, making 57 appearances and helping the club reach the UEFA Europa Conference League semi-finals in 2023.
Since arriving at Bournemouth, Kerkez has continued his upward trajectory. His performances in the 2024-25 Premier League season have been particularly eye-catching, with his blend of defensive solidity and marauding runs down the left flank earning comparisons to some of the league’s elite full-backs.
In 20 appearances this season, Kerkez has contributed two assists and has been a standout in Bournemouth’s mid-table campaign.
Personal Terms Agreed
The agreement on personal terms between Kerkez and Liverpool last week marked a significant step forward in the transfer process. According to sources, the young defender was impressed by Liverpool’s vision for his development and the opportunity to compete for major honours at Anfield.
The lure of Champions League football and the chance to work under Slot, known for his ability to nurture young talent, reportedly played a key role in convincing Kerkez to make the move.
However, the final piece of the puzzle lies in the negotiations between the clubs. Bournemouth, while open to a deal, are keen to maximise their return on a player who still has three years remaining on his contract.
Liverpool, for their part, are confident that a final round of talks—potentially scheduled for later this week—will be sufficient to get the deal over the line. Both sides are reportedly eager to avoid protracted negotiations, with the January transfer window fast approaching.
What This Means for Liverpool
Should the deal be completed, Kerkez’s arrival would provide Liverpool with much-needed depth and competition at left-back. Andrew Robertson, now 30, remains a cornerstone of the squad, but injuries and the physical demands of Liverpool’s high-octane style have highlighted the need for a long-term successor.
Kerkez’s youth and versatility—he can also play as a left-sided wing-back or even higher up the pitch—make him an ideal fit for Slot’s system.
Moreover, the signing would signal Liverpool’s intent to maintain their competitive edge in the Premier League and beyond. With rivals like Manchester City, Arsenal, and Manchester United also active in the transfer market, securing a player of Kerkez’s calibre would be a statement of ambition from the Merseyside club.
Bournemouth’s view
For Bournemouth, losing Kerkez would be a blow, but the potential financial windfall could allow Iraola to reinvest in the squad. The Cherries have a history of developing young talent and selling at a premium, as seen with players like Nathan Aké and Dominic Solanke in recent years.
While Kerkez’s departure would leave a gap at left-back, Bournemouth’s scouting network and prudent recruitment strategy could see them unearth another gem to replace him.
