Milos Kerkez is reportedly inclined to join Liverpool over Manchester’s two top clubs if he decides to leave Bournemouth this year. The Reds have expressed interest in strengthening their left-back position, with players like Patrick Dorgu, El Hadji Malick Diouf, and Antonee Robinson also under consideration. This area of the squad has become a concern for Liverpool fans, as Andy Robertson’s performances have dipped from his peak form, while Kostas Tsimikas has struggled to establish himself as a consistent starter.
Recent reports suggest Liverpool may have an edge in securing Kerkez. According to *The i Paper*, Liverpool, along with Manchester United and Manchester City, has approached the player’s representatives. Kerkez is said to favor a move to Anfield, partly due to the influence of Richard Hughes, Liverpool’s sporting director. Hughes played a key role in bringing the 21-year-old to Bournemouth 18 months ago and could be instrumental in steering him towards Liverpool.
Although Bournemouth is reportedly unwilling to sell Kerkez during the January transfer window, a substantial offer—potentially around £50 million—might convince the club to consider a deal. If Liverpool succeeds in landing Kerkez, it would be a major win for Hughes, who has faced criticism from fans for the club’s lack of activity in the transfer market. With a quiet summer window, an uneventful January so far, and ongoing contract talks with key players like Mohamed Salah, Virgil van Dijk, and Trent Alexander-Arnold, securing Kerkez could bolster Hughes’ reputation and alleviate some of the discontent among supporters.
Kerkez’s arrival would also address a pressing issue for Liverpool. As highlighted by *The Athletic*, upgrading the left-back position remains a priority for the club, though any significant move is expected to happen in the summer rather than this month. In the meantime, manager Arne Slot will depend on Tsimikas and hope Robertson can rediscover his best form.
Though Kerkez’s underlying performance stats, as per FBref, are not particularly impressive, the player has earned widespread praise for his displays at Bournemouth this season. Pundit Jamie Carragher has noted Kerkez’s aggressive playing style, drawing comparisons to Robertson’s early days at Liverpool in 2017.
Liverpool’s upcoming visit to Bournemouth on February 1 could provide Kerkez with an opportunity to impress his potential future club. Securing his signature, especially ahead of the Manchester clubs, would be a major coup for Hughes and could help restore faith among skeptical fans.
