Journalist Names One Potential Liverpool Signing to ‘Keep an Eye Out for’ | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Left-Back Conundrum: Ait-Nouri or Kerkez in Slot’s Evolving System

When a club wins the Premier League title under a new manager, attention naturally shifts to how they can evolve — not just maintain — their success. For Liverpool and Arne Slot, fresh from a triumphant first campaign at Anfield, left-back appears to be one of the positions under close scrutiny. In a recent Anfield Index podcast, David Lynch, speaking to Dave Davis, offered intriguing insight into Liverpool’s transfer thinking — and particularly their interest in Milos Kerkez and Rayan Aït-Nouri.

Slot’s Tactical Influence Already Reshaping Recruitment

One of the most striking developments of Slot’s debut season has been his tactical clarity. Known for favouring technical, high-intensity football with full-backs who are as comfortable in midfield zones as they are in wide channels, it’s no surprise that Liverpool are assessing their options in that department.

Lynch made it clear that while Kerkez is a serious consideration, things are far from settled:

“I can guarantee that Liverpool like him and that they’ve watched him very closely and there’s a lot of aspects there that they would admire but I would push back on the idea that it’s definitely going to be him.”

Photo: IMAGO

The keyword here is “admire” — Liverpool’s admiration for Kerkez isn’t necessarily a sign of an impending move, but rather a testament to how thorough the recruitment process is. Under Slot, the role of a full-back may demand even greater tactical flexibility, making the profile more complex than ever.

Rayan Aït-Nouri: A Better Fit for Slot’s System?

While Kerkez might have drawn the early headlines, Lynch believes fans should look elsewhere:

“Keep an eye out for Rayan Ait-Nouri because people are forgetting how many boxes he ticks.”

There’s a reason this line stands out. Aït-Nouri, with over 100 Premier League appearances at just 23 years old, represents not only proven experience but stylistic suitability. Lynch adds:

“He’s still only 23, he’s made over 100 Premier League appearances and seems to be a better fit for what Slot wants from his full-backs.”

Photo: IMAGO

It’s difficult to argue against that. Aït-Nouri’s ability to play inverted, his progressive passing, and his comfort operating in half-spaces are exactly the traits modern managers, particularly those from the Dutch school like Slot, value in a full-back.

In that sense, the Algerian international may tick more boxes than Kerkez, who, while tenacious and dynamic, is still adapting to Premier League demands.

No Guarantees, Just Intelligent Scouting

While some fans are desperate for early transfer clarity, Lynch reminds us that speculation shouldn’t be confused with certainty:

“Kerkez is on the list and I wouldn’t be shocked if we’re sat here next month and he has signed for Liverpool but just wait and see.”

This is a smart hedge and a healthy reminder of how elite clubs operate. Liverpool’s recruitment team under Michael Edwards (back in his second spell) and sporting director Richard Hughes are detail-driven. Being “on the list” at Liverpool means a player fits a long-term profile — not necessarily that a transfer is imminent.

The club’s hierarchy is unlikely to be rushed, particularly when there’s a title to defend and a new European campaign to navigate. Slot’s role in these discussions is pivotal. His blueprint will define how the team evolves, and that blueprint will, in turn, shape who walks through the door.

Left-Back Position Now Central to Liverpool’s Evolution

This isn’t just about adding depth — it’s about refreshing a role that’s been instrumental in the Klopp era and now must be reshaped under Slot. Whether it’s Aït-Nouri, Kerkez, or another left-field (pun intended) option, it’s clear Liverpool are hunting for someone who fits the future, not just the present.

And in that respect, as David Lynch hints, it’s far more than just a transfer rumour — it’s a tactical decision at the heart of the Slot project.