Journalist: ‘It’s been pretty obvious for a while that he’s joining Liverpool’ | OneFootball

Milos Kerkez: Why the Reds’ Interest Signals a Tactical Shift

Liverpool’s Left-Back Evolution

On the latest episode of Media Matters from Anfield Index, journalist Lewis Steele offered a wealth of insight into Liverpool’s summer transfer intentions, with Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth front and centre in discussions. Steele confirmed what many had long suspected: “Kerkez has been pretty obvious that he was heading probably to Liverpool for a while, quite a few months.”

This isn’t just idle gossip. According to Steele, the Reds were biding their time out of professional courtesy. “Liverpool would view it as disrespectful to Bournemouth to rumble them a bit while they’re still in the hunt for Europe.” That hunt has now effectively ended, and the foot is firmly on the accelerator. As Steele said, “Liverpool are planning to step things up with Kerkez in the next week or so.”

Slot’s Blueprint: Flying Fullbacks

With Arne Slot stepping into the dugout at Anfield, there’s more than a change in personnel underway — it’s a change in philosophy. And Kerkez fits the mould.

Steele pointed to Slot’s admiration for PSG’s use of fullbacks like Achraf Hakimi and Nuno Mendes: “Slot really likes that, and I think that’s how he wants to play next season.” He added, “Flying fullbacks really are going to be fashionable next season.”

It’s no accident that both Kerkez and Jeremie Frimpong are in the crosshairs. Both are aggressive, forward-thinking, and dynamic — qualities Slot values for breaking down defensive setups. As Steele put it, “I think Frimpong and Kerkez are good additions and not really breaking the bank in this day and age… both perfect age profile.”

Bournemouth’s Bargain and the Numbers Game

The reported combined outlay for Frimpong and Kerkez? Around £45 million. In today’s market, that’s savvy business. “Thirty for Frimpong… not too pricey,” Steele noted. For Kerkez, the personal terms appear straightforward. “I think the personal side is quite easy. It’s just the club-to-club stuff now.”

The 20-year-old Hungarian has impressed at Bournemouth, catching the eye not just for his defensive resilience but his energy up and down the flank. Slot, it seems, has identified this as a key area for innovation in the coming season.

Photo: IMAGO

Tactical Evolution, Not Revolution

What does this all mean for Liverpool fans? As Steele summarised, “Obviously you don’t fix what’s not broken, but I think they need to evolve… extra weapons is a nice phrase that Slot used.”

The arrival of Milos Kerkez, should it be finalised, is not simply a depth signing. It signals a broader change in how Liverpool intend to attack games, particularly against teams sitting deep. The fullbacks won’t just support attacks — they’ll initiate them.

Liverpool’s calculated approach with Bournemouth reflects a club operating with purpose and respect. And for all the talk of marquee names, it’s the signing of a modern, high-ceiling fullback like Milos Kerkez that might prove to be the most transformative.

If and when the deal goes through, don’t be surprised if this proves one of the smartest moves of Liverpool’s summer.