Report: Slot Stays Silent on Bournemouth Target Amid Liverpool Links | OneFootball

Bournemouth Target Impresses as Slot Stays Silent

Liverpool head coach Arne Slot remained tight-lipped when questioned about reported transfer target Milos Kerkez following the Hungarian left-back’s solid display against the Reds. While speculation continues to link the Bournemouth defender with a move to Anfield, the Dutchman refused to be drawn into transfer talk.

Kerkez, who has emerged as a key figure for the Cherries this season, put in a strong performance as Bournemouth succumbed to a 2-0 defeat against Liverpool at the Vitality Stadium. His contributions have not gone unnoticed, with reports suggesting he is on Liverpool’s radar ahead of the summer transfer window. Last month, The i Paper claimed Kerkez had been identified as Slot’s top choice for the left-back role.

Slot’s Tactical Concerns and Left-Back Uncertainty

Liverpool’s left-back position remains an area of scrutiny. Both Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas have struggled with consistency, while injuries have only amplified concerns about long-term stability in the role. The Reds are expected to reinforce their squad in the summer, and Kerkez’s name continues to be linked with a move.

There is an added layer of intrigue given the defender’s history with Liverpool’s current sporting director, Richard Hughes. Before his Anfield switch, Hughes was instrumental in bringing Kerkez to Bournemouth, and his influence could play a role in any potential transfer discussions. However, Slot was unwilling to fan the flames of speculation when asked directly about the Hungarian’s prospects at Liverpool.

Bournemouth, England, 1st February 2025. Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth and Mohamed Salah of Liverpool challenge for the ball during the Premier League match at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth. Picture credit should read: Paul Terry / Sportimage EDITORIAL USE ONLY. No use with unauthorised audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or live services. Online in-match use limited to 120 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. SPI_025_PT_Bournemouth_Liverpool SPI-3648-0025

Slot’s Response: Praise but No Confirmation

During his post-match press conference, Slot sidestepped the transfer question while acknowledging Kerkez’s impressive season.

“I don’t think I have to talk about players that we are interested in, let alone a player from Bournemouth,” Slot stated. “He is over here and he is having a great season, as many, many other players are having here as well.

“That shows you how good of a manager you have over here and what a great sporting director you had over here (Richard Hughes) and maybe still have now, I don’t know who it is.

“But he (Hughes) brought in many good players and the manager works with every player to bring them in an incredible way, including the one you just mentioned. But I am not talking about an individual, they are all bringing the best out of their game at the moment.”

Kerkez’s Performance Fuels Transfer Talk

Despite Slot’s reluctance to comment, Kerkez’s latest showing will only strengthen the case for his suitability at Liverpool. Tasked with handling Mohamed Salah, the 20-year-old dealt well with the Egyptian’s movement for large parts of the game, even though he was powerless to prevent either of Liverpool’s goals.

Liverpool’s need for a dependable left-back remains a key talking point, and Kerkez’s blend of athleticism, defensive awareness, and attacking intent makes him an attractive proposition. With the summer window still some months away, speculation will likely persist—whether Slot wants to entertain it or not.