Fabrizio Romano: £45m Kerkez transfer inches closer as Liverpool ramp up summer plans | OneFootball

Kerkez Deal Edges Closer as Liverpool Target Defensive Evolution

Liverpool waste no time after title triumph

Fresh from clinching the Premier League title, Liverpool are wasting little time in shaping their future. Rather than basking in the glow of a successful campaign, sporting director Richard Hughes and head coach Arne Slot are accelerating plans to evolve the squad. Their strategy is bold, proactive, and surgical.

With Jeremie Frimpong already secured from Bayer Leverkusen and Florian Wirtz also on the radar, the emphasis is not only on consolidation but on elevating a squad built to dominate. Yet amid talk of centre-forwards and marquee midfielders, it is the quiet pursuit of a left-back that may offer the clearest window into the club’s thinking.

Kerkez emerges as key figure in Liverpool’s next phase

Milos Kerkez, the 21-year-old Bournemouth defender, has emerged as Liverpool’s priority for the left side of defence. It is a position that has been discussed behind closed doors for months, particularly given Andy Robertson’s age and contract situation. Now 31, the Scot’s deal runs until 2026, and while he remains a high performer, succession planning is quietly but firmly underway.

Kostas Tsimikas, once viewed as a capable understudy, may be sacrificed to facilitate change. The Greek international has never truly nailed down his place, and with interest expected in his services, Liverpool are preparing for a reshuffle.

Enter Kerkez, a former signing by Hughes during his Bournemouth days and now the favoured candidate to fill one of the club’s long-term vacancies.

Romano confirms agreement with player

Fabrizio Romano has now confirmed that Liverpool have agreed personal terms with Kerkez, with the focus shifting to negotiations between clubs. Bournemouth are reportedly holding out for £45 million, but Liverpool seem confident of completing the deal despite competition from heavyweights like Real Madrid and Manchester City.

“Who is really appreciated at Liverpool is Milos Kerkez, and I’m insisting on this one, guys, because I expect this deal to advance in the next days, also between clubs,” Romano said on his YouTube channel.

“Agreement done with the player. The agreement between Liverpool and Kerkez is done. The contract is ready. Everything is okay. The player can’t wait to become a Liverpool player.

“The player is really convinced about the Liverpool project. So the feeling is very positive. Liverpool and Bournemouth are discussing, but the understanding is that this deal is advancing behind the scenes.”

Signals of a smart rebuild

Kerkez represents more than just youthful depth. He’s a symbol of Liverpool’s growing willingness to invest in potential while maintaining a competitive edge. At just 21, he’s already shown strength, composure, and an attacking instinct that suits Slot’s system.

This is not a reactive rebuild. It’s a carefully coordinated evolution driven by data, trust in recruitment, and an ambition that refuses to stagnate. For Liverpool, the summer is about sharpening every angle – and Kerkez may soon be a significant part of that story.