Romano Reds in talks over Premier League defender as summer plans take shape | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Kerkez Pursuit Signals Change Under Slot

In a season where Liverpool have embraced a fresh managerial era under Arne Slot, the club’s recruitment team are wasting no time in shaping the squad to suit a bold, progressive style. With Fabrizio Romano on X and journalist Mark Douglas both reporting key developments, the Reds appear to be shifting their focus to Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez – a name increasingly synonymous with dynamism at left-back.

Kerkez Rising – And Bournemouth Know It

Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth have exceeded expectations this season. ” That success has not gone unnoticed, and one of the standout performers has been Milos Kerkez. The Hungarian full-back has combined defensive awareness with relentless energy on the left flank, drawing admiring glances from Europe’s elite – not least Liverpool.

Romano and Douglas both underline that “talks between Liverpool and Bournemouth over Milos Kerkez have now taken place with the defender valued at £45m.” It’s a valuation that underlines Bournemouth’s ambitions. As the report notes: “Such premium prices for Bournemouth’s stars is linked to the ownership of the club believing they are in the middle of an ambitious project.”

Slot’s Squad Taking Shape

Liverpool’s interest in Kerkez is not an isolated rumour. “Milos Kerkez has emerged as Liverpool’s primary target for the left-back position,” this suggesting a reshuffle in defence. With Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas both approaching key stages of their Liverpool journeys, change feels imminent.

Photo: IMAGO

And while fans wait for a firm offer, Liverpool’s ability to act quickly has already been proven. Liverpool have demonstrated that they are quick to advance with a player if they want to, evident in the closure of the Jeremie Frimpong deal this transfer window .

Hato an Alternative – But Price Might Decide

Ajax’s Jorrel Hato has also emerged as a potential target. While Hato is younger and potentially more versatile, Kerkez brings Premier League experience – a premium Liverpool may be willing to pay.

Yet, there’s a sense of caution. “Despite talks between the two clubs taking place in recent weeks, the Reds are yet to table a firm offer.”

With Bournemouth owner Bill Foley publicly stating he “won’t step in the way of any players who wish to leave,” the pathway is there – if Liverpool choose to accelerate talks.

European Aspirations and Future Planning

Bournemouth’s 10th-place position is no accident. With “two games remaining, they still have a lot to play for.” That may delay negotiations, but Liverpool know the time is right to invest in the future. In Kerkez, they see a modern full-back capable of driving the Slot era forward.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

If this report is anything to go by, Liverpool fans have every reason to be excited. Milos Kerkez has been one of the standout left-backs in the Premier League this season – aggressive, tactically disciplined, and fearless in transition. At just 20, he already looks tailor-made for the kind of high-tempo football that Arne Slot wants to implement.

With Andy Robertson not quite the force he once was – and Kostas Tsimikas often inconsistent – the left-back role is one of the few areas that genuinely needs a refresh. The £45m price tag may seem steep, but for a Premier League-proven player with years ahead of him, it’s arguably a sound investment.

There’s also something symbolic in the club’s intent. Liverpool moving decisively for a young, ambitious talent from within the Premier League is the kind of proactivity fans crave. The only concern would be delaying too long and losing out – especially if other top clubs enter the frame.

Ultimately, this feels like a move with real potential. Slot appears to have identified key gaps already, and the pace at which the Frimpong deal happened proves the club is not messing around. If Kerkez is next, Liverpool’s new era is beginning to take serious shape.