Liverpool and Man City both keen on Premier League defender | OneFootball

Kerkez Emerges as Key Target in Liverpool’s Summer Rebuild

Rising Talent Drawing Big-Club Attention

Liverpool are among a trio of European heavyweights closely monitoring the progress of Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, according to Sky Sports. The 21-year-old left-back has enjoyed a standout season under Andoni Iraola, starting every Premier League game to date and becoming one of the most consistent performers in a resurgent Cherries side.

Kerkez’s combination of athleticism, tenacity, and tactical maturity has caught the eye of Liverpool, Real Madrid, and Manchester City, all of whom are exploring reinforcements in the left-back position. For Liverpool, the interest is underpinned by a sense of familiarity—sporting director Richard Hughes was instrumental in bringing Kerkez to Bournemouth from AZ Alkmaar last year.

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Liverpool Prioritise Left-Back in Strategic Overhaul

As per Sky Sports, “Left-back is a priority position for Liverpool this summer along with a striker and a winger.” Should those key targets be secured early, the Reds plan to expand their recruitment to other areas, including right-back, central midfield, and a left-footed centre-back.

Kerkez, for his part, appears ambitious but pragmatic. He is said to be considering a move to a bigger club but remains insistent that regular first-team football must remain part of the offer.

Photo IMAGO

In a market often bloated by speculation, this feels like a move grounded in logic.

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For Liverpool fans, this report will stir a familiar blend of excitement and apprehension. Kerkez fits the ideal profile for what’s needed at Anfield: young, hungry, and already Premier League-proven. After a season where injuries and inconsistency have plagued the full-back positions, particularly with Andy Robertson’s extended absence, fans are right to expect reinforcement that can start, not just cover.

Photo: IMAGO

Richard Hughes being behind Kerkez’s original signing adds an intriguing dynamic. There’s a trust factor here. If he rated him at Bournemouth, it stands to reason he sees qualities that could thrive at Liverpool.

That said, there’s also a growing expectation that this summer must be more than opportunistic—it must be transformative. Ane Slot will need ready-made contributors. Kerkez, while young, appears ready for that responsibility. But expectant fans will be watching for decisive action, not drawn-out flirtations. If Liverpool believe he’s the one, make it happen before someone else does.