Bournemouth v Nottingham Forest Premier League 04/02/2024. Milos Kerkez 3 of AFC Bournemouth on the attack during the Premier League match between Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest at the Vitality Stadium, Bournemouth, England on 4 February 2024. Bournemouth Vitality Stadium Dorset England Editorial use only DataCo restrictions apply See www.football-dataco.com , Copyright: xGrahamxHuntx PSI-18948-0071
Ornstein: Kerkez “Strong Option” But Price Tag “Too High”..
Liverpool Prepared to Spend Big on Milos Kerkez
Liverpool continue to monitor Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez, with fresh reports indicating that the club are prepared to invest significantly in securing his signature.
A pivotal summer transfer window looms at Anfield, as incoming manager Arne Slot looks to shape his squad ahead of the 2024/25 campaign. Reinforcements in several positions are expected, with left-back standing out as an area requiring particular attention. With Andy Robertson now 31 and Kostas Tsimikas primarily viewed as a squad player, Liverpool are actively seeking a long-term solution.
Kerkez has been strongly linked with a move to Merseyside, with discussions reportedly taking place regarding his future at Bournemouth. The Hungarian international has impressed in his debut Premier League season, starting all 28 league games for the Cherries and showcasing his attacking prowess, most notably with a stunning assist for Marcus Tavernier against Tottenham Hotspur.
Liverpool Face Hefty Price Tag for Kerkez
According to The Athletic, Liverpool remain highly interested in Kerkez, with journalist David Ornstein describing him as a “strong option” for the club this summer. Reports suggest that Bournemouth could demand a fee in the region of £50 million for the 21-year-old, a figure that Liverpool are considering despite their usual reluctance to spend heavily on full-backs.
The Reds have also been admirers of Paris Saint-Germain’s Nuno Mendes and Bayern Munich’s Alphonso Davies. However, both players have recently committed their futures to their respective clubs, effectively ruling out any potential move to Anfield.
Ornstein further claims that the amount Liverpool are willing to pay for Kerkez is “likely to be above” their standard valuation for a full-back, indicating a significant shift in strategy.
Liverpool’s Approach to Full-Back Transfers
Historically, Liverpool have been frugal when it comes to investing in full-backs. Robertson was signed for a mere £8 million from Hull City in 2017, a move that proved to be one of the club’s greatest bargains of the modern era. Similarly, Kostas Tsimikas arrived from Olympiacos for £11.75 million in 2020.
Prior to that, Alberto Moreno joined from Sevilla for £12 million, while Nathaniel Clyne and Glen Johnson cost £12.5 million and £17.5 million respectively. If Liverpool were to meet Bournemouth’s asking price, Kerkez would comfortably become the club’s most expensive full-back signing in history.
Kerkez a Worthy Investment for the Reds
While the suggested £50 million valuation is substantial, Liverpool’s pursuit of Kerkez underscores the importance of securing a long-term replacement for Robertson. The Hungarian’s attacking ability, combined with his defensive solidity, makes him a compelling option to slot into Slot’s system seamlessly.
Liverpool have demonstrated an ability to develop full-backs into world-class assets, and Kerkez appears to fit the mould of a player who could flourish under the club’s setup. Given his potential and age, the investment could prove to be a shrewd piece of business, ensuring Liverpool’s left-back position remains in safe hands for years to come.
