Liverpool are reportedly prepared to bid £41m to sign Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez in the summer amidst speculation that a number of defenders could leave Anfield.
The Reds are set to play fierce rivals Everton in the final Merseyside derby of the season on Wednesday, and a victory would maintain their 12-point advantage over second-placed Arsenal in the Premier League.
Though Arne Slot‘s side suffered disappointing exits in the FA Cup and the Champions League, as well as having lost the EFL Cup final against Newcastle United, it is difficult to label 2024-25 as anything other than a season of progression.
However, despite the Reds’ success this term, there are still a number of concerns regarding players in the starting XI, particularly left-back Andrew Robertson.
The veteran has come under scrutiny this campaign for his performances, and Fichajes claim that Liverpool would be willing to offer more than £40m for Bournemouth defender Kerkez, who is seen as a potential replacement.
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Is Kerkez a good fit for Liverpool?
One of Kerkez’s defining traits as a full-back is his intensity, with the Hungarian international often tasked by boss Andoni Iraola with charging up the left flank from deep starting positions.
The 21-year-old’s style of play makes him an ideal successor to Robertson, who was renowned for his ability to support the likes of Sadio Mane, while also ensuring that his defence was not left exposed.
However, Slot’s use of Liverpool’s full-backs differs somewhat from previous manager Jurgen Klopp, with the current head coach at times instructing his defenders to move into midfield positions.
Robertson has at times struggled with these midfield responsibilities, and such a role would also be relatively new for Kerkez.
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How many defenders will leave Anfield?
Trent Alexander-Arnold‘s departure from Liverpool upon the expiry of his contract in the summer looks almost certain, with recent reports suggesting that Real Madrid are close to securing his signature.
Conor Bradley has been Alexander-Arnold’s backup for some time, and while many believe that he has the talent needed to step into the void left the first-choice right-back, the 21-year-old has suffered a number of injury issues.
If the Reds were to sign a more reliably fit defender such as Jeremie Frimpong, it is difficult to see Bradley staying at the club as second choice.
Elsewhere, captain Virgil van Dijk is also out of contract in the summer while fellow centre-back Ibrahima Konate will have just a year left on his deal by the end of this season.
Others like Joe Gomez and Kostas Tsimikas have been linked with exits from Anfield, and though the current season is still ongoing, it is clear that the summer of 2025 is likely to see significant activity in the transfer window.
