Liverpool ‘Definitely Like’ £45m Defender but ‘It’s Still Early Days’ for Transfer Moves – Journalist | OneFootball

Liverpool’s Search for a Left-Back: Milos Kerkez in Focus

Fresh from clinching the Premier League title with a commanding 5-1 victory over Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool are already turning their attention to strengthening their squad for next season. With Arne Slot set to embark on his first summer at the helm, the club’s recruitment plans are under the microscope. Among the many names linked with a move to Anfield, AFC Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez has emerged as a prominent target.

David Lynch, speaking to Dave Davis on Anfield Index, provided some valuable insight into the situation. While many fans have started to assume that Kerkez’s arrival is inevitable, Lynch poured a measure of cold water on those expectations.

Liverpool’s Interest in Kerkez: Strong but Not Confirmed

“He’s definitely a player that Liverpool like,” Lynch confirmed, but added, “I think because he has been linked for so long that people have started to assume that he is 100% coming but I don’t think we are in that situation yet.”

These comments underline the fact that, despite the strong interest, no deal is imminent. Bournemouth are reportedly demanding £45million for the Hungarian international, a significant fee that may influence Liverpool’s decision-making.

It’s crucial to remember that Liverpool’s recruitment process is meticulous. They cast a wide net and explore multiple options before committing. As Lynch emphasised, “I know people want as much certainty as possible but we’re still only in April and the season isn’t even over yet so it’s still early days.”

Competition and Alternatives: Not Just About Kerkez

While Kerkez is highly rated, he is not Liverpool’s only option. Lynch revealed that Wolves’ Rayan Ait-Nouri is also under consideration. “They definitely do like him, so I’m not saying that he won’t sign but there is others that they like as well with one of them being Rayan Ait-Nouri at Wolves.”

This suggests that Liverpool are keeping their options open, ensuring that they make the best possible addition to a squad already bursting with quality following their latest title triumph. It is a hallmark of a club that has consistently operated shrewdly in the transfer market, balancing ambition with pragmatism.

Photo: IMAGO

Strategic Squad Building Under Arne Slot

Slot’s arrival marks a new chapter for Liverpool, but the club’s careful approach to transfers remains the same. The left-back position has been a point of mild concern in recent years, with injuries to key players such as Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas highlighting the need for more depth.

Milos Kerkez fits the profile of the kind of player Liverpool tend to favour: young, dynamic, and with plenty of room for development. However, the £45million valuation set by Bournemouth could complicate negotiations, especially when there are alternatives available who may offer better value.

Liverpool will not rush into any decisions. As Lynch wisely pointed out, we are still in April, and with Euro 2024 on the horizon, player performances could yet impact valuations and availability. The coming months will be telling, but for now, the story of Milos Kerkez and Liverpool is one to watch, not to conclude.