Liverpool are looking to secure multiple transfer targets before Arne Slot’s squad return for preseason training in July.
The Reds sealed their second Premier League title in five years as part of a superb first campaign for Slot.
However, the Dutch coach is expected to make changes at Anfield this summer – with his full-back positions a key focus – as Trent Alexander-Arnold moves on to Real Madrid on free transfer.
Bayer Leverkusen star Jeremie Frimpong is on course to replace Liverpool’s departing No.66 with the EPL champions already activating his £30m [$40m] release clause at the BayArena.
However, the former Celtic defender will not be the only change in Slot’s backline, with Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez still a key target
Kerkez has previously hinted at his readiness to leave the Vitality Stadium – after the Cherries missed out on a European place – but Manchester City are also tracking the Hungary international.
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Milos Kerkez’s Bournemouth contract, release clause, stats
Kerkez does not have a release clause in his Bournemouth contract which runs until 2028 but Andoni Iraola’s side will demand around £45m [$60m].
Despite Liverpool being quicker off the mark in the race for Kerkez, City have stepped up their intensity, with reports from The I hinting at the battle now being very close.
It’s not the first time Liverpool and City have gone face-to-face for a defensive target with Josko Gvardiol’s 2023 switch to the Etihad Stadium the most recent example.
Liverpool have been in talks with Kerkez’s representatives since the start of 2025, with reported progress made on an agreement, but no formal offer has been submitted to Bournemouth.
Slot and Pep Guardiola are both in looking for a new left-back, with concerns over Andy Robertson’s long-term spot at Anfield and Gvardiol preferring to play centrally.
Bournemouth’s agreement to sell Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid could also reduce the pressure to sell, as the 20-year-old’s exit will bring in key transfer funds for Iraola’s own plans, as he looks to build for 2025/26.
Kerkez ended the 2024/25 campaign with two EPL goals in his second season in England and he ended the campaign in second place on the EPL list for crosses into the opposition penalty area [27] behind USMNT star Antonee Robinson [29].
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