Real Madrid Want to ‘Hijack’ Liverpool’s Move to Sign £45million Star – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Face New Hurdle in Milos Kerkez Pursuit Amid Real Madrid Interest

Liverpool’s summer plans may face yet another unwanted twist as Real Madrid enter the frame for Milos Kerkez. The Bournemouth left-back has long been admired by those at Anfield, and recent reports suggest that personal terms with the 21-year-old have already been agreed. However, in a development that will feel all too familiar to Reds supporters, Real Madrid are once again threatening to hijack a key Liverpool target.

According to Spanish journalist Marcos Benito, speaking on El Chiringuito, “Real Madrid is considering more names including Milos Kerkez” as an alternative to Álvaro Carreras, whose €50 million release clause has become a sticking point in negotiations with Benfica. Madrid prefer a structured deal in the region of €30-35 million plus bonuses, which has led to talks stalling.

Agent Switch Smooths Liverpool Path

There is cause for optimism at Anfield. Kerkez recently switched representation to Fali Ramadani – the same agent who handled Federico Chiesa’s move to Liverpool in 2024. This change is seen as a positive step toward finalising a transfer, with insiders suggesting the player is “delighted at the prospect of joining Liverpool.”

Photo: IMAGO

Kerkez is under contract at Bournemouth until 2028 and is valued at €45 million. While Liverpool’s discussions with Ramadani are said to be progressing well, Madrid’s emergence as contenders changes the complexion of the deal significantly. Benito notes: “It seems the English club has taken the lead in signing him this summer but he’s another name on Real Madrid’s radar to strengthen the left-back position.”

Club World Cup Timing Could Be Crucial

Interestingly, Carreras’ availability hinges on Benfica’s involvement in the Club World Cup. The Portuguese giants want to retain him until at least July 13, when the tournament concludes. Should Madrid decide not to wait, they may accelerate efforts to hijack a deal for Kerkez. Liverpool will want to avoid drawn-out negotiations, especially with pre-season under Arne Slot looming.

History doesn’t favour the Reds in these scenarios. Madrid have beaten Liverpool to several high-profile targets in recent years. Jude Bellingham and Aurélien Tchouaméni both chose the Spanish capital despite heavy interest from Merseyside. More painfully, Trent Alexander-Arnold’s impending free transfer to Madrid has rubbed salt into already sore wounds.

Lessons from Past Failures Must Guide Liverpool

Liverpool’s recruitment under Slot has so far been efficient and aggressive, securing the Premier League title in the Dutchman’s first season. But the Kerkez saga is shaping into a pivotal early test of the club’s ability to win key transfer battles under the new regime.

Should they lose out again, particularly to Madrid, it raises questions not just about financial firepower but also about Liverpool’s ability to close deals swiftly.

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a fan’s perspective, this latest twist is a real mix of hope and anxiety. Kerkez looks like a great fit for Slot’s aggressive style, and the fact we’ve already agreed personal terms is a big plus. The Fali Ramadani connection? That gives us flashbacks of the Chiesa deal – and we all remember how solid that one turned out.

But let’s be honest: the Real Madrid shadow is looming large again. Bellingham, Tchouaméni, now Trent. It’s hard not to feel like we’re always second-best when the big European sharks circle. And it hurts even more now that we’re Premier League champions again – we should be the club players want to join, not the one they leave behind.

Still, there’s real confidence around Slot, and rightly so. If he wants Kerkez, we have to go all in. Madrid dragging their feet over Carreras could work in our favour, but we need to act fast. No dithering. Tie this up before Madrid have a chance to sweet-talk his agent.

And if he does choose Madrid? Then Liverpool need a Plan B, fast. The left-back position is one we can’t afford to neglect, especially with Robbo not getting any younger.