Liverpool have agreed a £40 million deal to sign Hungary international Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth, in what marks the third major transfer of the summer under new head coach Arne Slot. The 21-year-old left-back, widely regarded as one of the Premier League’s breakout talents last season, is expected to undergo his medical at the AXA Training Centre next week before penning a long-term contract, believed to run for five years.
Kerkez’s arrival continues Liverpool’s aggressive recruitment strategy this summer, coming after the acquisition of Dutch right-back Jeremie Frimpong for £29.5 million and an imminent, club-record £116 million move for German playmaker Florian Wirtz from Bayer Leverkusen. His signing is also seen as a strategic move by sporting director Richard Hughes, who previously worked with Kerkez during his time at Bournemouth.
From Gyor to Anfield: The Rise of Milos Kerkez
Born in Serbia but representing Hungary internationally, Milos Kerkez’s football journey has been anything but linear. He began his senior career at Hungarian side Gyor before earning a move to Serie A giants AC Milan. Despite not making a senior appearance for the Rossoneri, a switch to Dutch side AZ Alkmaar in early 2022 proved pivotal to his development.
In the 2022–23 campaign, Kerkez flourished with AZ Alkmaar, making 52 appearances, scoring five goals, and providing seven assists. He played a crucial role in helping the club finish fourth in the Eredivisie and reach the semi-finals of the Europa Conference League. His performances earned him a £15 million move to Bournemouth last summer, where he impressed with two goals and six assists across all 38 Premier League matches, helping the Cherries secure a record ninth-place finish.
Kerkez’s Profile Fits Slot’s Tactical Blueprint
While Arne Slot’s system may differ in nuance from Jurgen Klopp’s high-octane pressing style, the need for full-backs who contribute both defensively and offensively remains unchanged. Kerkez, known for his energy, pressing intensity, and ball-carrying ability, appears tailor-made for Liverpool’s evolving tactical identity.
In the 2024–25 Premier League season, Kerkez ranked fifth among defenders for ball recoveries (169), outpacing every Liverpool defender. He also won possession in the final third 11 times—the ninth most in the division. Offensively, he delivered 142 crosses (6th among defenders), created 34 chances from open play (7th), and completed more dribbles (22) than any Liverpool defender. His ability to play high up the pitch and contribute to buildup play makes him a natural fit in Slot’s backline.
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From Bournemouth to the Kop: Liverpool Confirm £40m Deal for Milos Kerkez
Kerkez’s impending arrival casts uncertainty over the futures of Andy Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas. Robertson, now 31, has reportedly drawn interest from La Liga giants Atletico Madrid, as he seeks more regular game time. While Liverpool remain keen on retaining the Scottish international for his experience and leadership, a transfer remains possible.
Tsimikas, on the other hand, is expected to depart. The Greek defender has struggled for consistent minutes and may look elsewhere to secure regular first-team football. Slot’s preference for athletic, attacking full-backs further strengthens the case for Kerkez becoming Liverpool’s long-term starter on the left.
Next Steps and Transfer Window Context
Bournemouth have already secured Adrien Truffert from Rennes as Kerkez’s replacement, clearing the path for the Hungarian’s move to Anfield. A medical is scheduled for next week, after which Liverpool are expected to officially unveil Kerkez as their latest summer signing.
With three significant deals nearly wrapped up before the end of June, Liverpool have sent a strong signal of intent. Under Arne Slot, the Reds are not only rebuilding but aiming to reinforce every line of the squad with young, technically gifted players. The Wirtz deal, when confirmed, will further underscore the club’s ambition to reclaim both domestic and European dominance.
Milos Kerkez is set to become the latest face in Liverpool’s new era, offering youth, dynamism, and tactical fit as the Reds look to reshape their defense for the future.
