Liverpool transfer news update: Has Arne Slot identified Premier League defender as ideal target?

The Reds are first in the Premier League table and are almost certain to win a 20th league title given they are 13 points ahead of second-placed Arsenal.

Their domestic form has made them one of the favourites to win the Champions League, though they face a difficult test against Paris Saint-Germain in the round of 16, with the sides set to clash on Wednesday in the first leg.

Manager Arne Slot has achieved his success this season despite Federico Chiesa being the only signing the club made in the past summer window, but the team are likely to delve into the market before the start of 2025-26.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano claims that Liverpool are among a number of clubs that hold an interest in Bournemouth left-back Kerkez, who he says is 'expected to leave' in the coming months.

Milos Kerkez: Andy Robertson's clone?

Liverpool's current first-choice left-back Andrew Robertson has at times faced criticism for his performances this season, and some fans have argued that the 30-year-old has struggled to provide the intensity that the club needs on the left.

At his peak, the Scotsman was a relentless force at both ends of the pitch, but he has looked more vulnerable defensively when defending his box against opposition wingers.

Kerkez is just 21 years old and has excelled with Bournemouth this season, helping the Cherries make an unexpected charge for Champions League qualification.

The Hungarian shares many similarities with Robertson, particularly the Liverpool legend's immense energy in attack, and it would not be surprising if the Reds made a move for the defender if they wanted to sign a younger and stylistically similar peer.

Is left-back a priority for Liverpool?

The Merseysiders have a working relationship with Kerkez's agent Fali Ramadani, who also represents Liverpool forward Chiesa.

However, Liverpool already have Kostas Tsimikas and Robertson as options on the left side of defence, and a deal for Kerkez should arguably not be a priority considering several first-team stars could leave the club.

Trent Alexander-Arnold and Virgil van Dijk's contracts are set to expire at the end of the season, and they will need to be replaced should they depart.

Mohamed Salah is also out of contract, while it would be surprising if Slot opted to use the same midfield group next campaign, particularly as he has shown little faith in the likes of Wataru Endo and Harvey Elliott.

The upcoming summer could see the Reds lose a number of players, and given the team already have two left-backs at the club, perhaps strengthening in other areas should be of greater concern.

Written by

Lewis Nolan