- Liverpool have received a significant transfer boost when it comes to their target
- The star feels a stronger connection to Liverpool because of Richard Hughes
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Liverpool have received a significant transfer boost, as Milos Kerkez is reportedly leaning towards a move to Anfield over joining either of Manchester’s Premier League giants, should he leave Bournemouth.
According to The i Paper, the £50 million-rated defender feels a stronger connection to Liverpool, largely due to the influence of Richard Hughes, the sporting director who orchestrated Kerkez’s transfer to Bournemouth 18 months ago.
Hughes is said to be playing ‘a major role’ in persuading the 21-year-old to favour Liverpool over Pep Guardiola‘s reigning champions or Ruben Amorim’s strugglers.
Hughes, who transitioned to Liverpool in June 2024 after a successful tenure at Bournemouth, was instrumental in bringing Kerkez to the Premier League from AZ Alkmaar in 2023.
Additionally, Kerkez shares a strong bond with Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai, his captain in the Hungarian national team. This camaraderie is believed to be another compelling reason for Kerkez’s interest in joining the Reds.
Bournemouth, currently performing well in the Premier League, have recently secured the signing of 19-year-old left-back Julio Soler from Argentine club Lanus. While Soler’s arrival could be seen as a contingency for Kerkez’s potential departure.
Liverpool have received a significant transfer boost, as Milos Kerkez is reportedly leaning towards a move to Anfield over joining either of Manchester’s Premier League giants
He feels a stronger connection to Liverpool, due to the influence of Richard Hughes (right), the sporting director who orchestrated Kerkez’s transfer to Bournemouth 18 months ago
However, Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has stated that there are no plans to sell key players during the January transfer window.
Liverpool’s interest in Kerkez aligns with their strategic planning for the future. With current left-back Andy Robertson in his 30’s and Kostas Tsimikas at 28, the club is seeking a long-term successor to maintain depth and quality in the left-back position.
While no formal offers have been made, and Bournemouth are under no immediate pressure to sell, the combination of personal connections and strategic fit makes Liverpool a compelling destination for Kerkez.
The news will come as a blow to Manchester United as they are looking to rebuild under Amorim, who took over from Erik ten Hag this season but his side are 15th in the Premier League table.
The Red Devils have struggled for options at left wing back, with Luke Shaw out injured again and Tyrell Malacia just coming back from a long-term injury.
Diego Dalot has filled in but is more comfortable on the right, and many have suggested that left wing back, which would suit Kerkez, may be an area of priority.
