Why Liverpool Secured Bournemouth’s Dynamic Left Back, Milos Kerkez

Is Milos Kerkez the answer to Robertson’s departure?

Bournemouth has demonstrated great skill in the transfer market in recent years. They secured center-back Dean Huijsen for €19.63m last summer, who has now made a move to Real Madrid for €62.5m. This window, Bournemouth has capitalized again with the confirmed transfer of left-back Milos Kerkez to reigning Premier League champions Liverpool. The Hungarian defender was brought in from AZ Alkmaar for just €17.87m in 2023 and is now joining the Reds for €46.7m.

The 21-year-old returned from a holiday in Belgrade on Monday, completing his medical and signing a five-year contract that runs until June 2030 at Anfield. Manchester City and Real Madrid had also shown considerable interest in the rising star. While there has been much speculation about Liverpool finding a replacement for the outgoing Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back, the need for a left-back has also become crucial with Andy Robertson now 31 years old, and Kerkez fits the bill perfectly.

Why Milos Kerkez could be the ideal replacement for Andy Robertson

As shown in recent analyses, Kerkez has one of the highest market values for U21 left-backs globally, at €45m—second only to Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde at €60m. The Hungarian has made impressive progress in his two seasons in the Premier League and has been a key player in Bournemouth’s success. He has played 72 matches for the club, scoring twice and assisting on eight occasions, with plenty of room to grow at just 21 years of age.

During Liverpool’s peak under Jürgen Klopp, Robertson was a dynamic force along the left side—constantly energetic and a consistent attacking threat. Kerkez has a similar style; he is creative, boasts an exceptional left foot for crossing, and can hold down the flank throughout the match. In addition to being capable in attack, he is also defensively sound—recording more clearances and interceptions than Robertson last season, as well as outperforming him in aerial and ground duels.

Bournemouth’s manager, Andoni Iraola, has played a crucial role in Kerkez’s development and has consistently praised him. “Milos has improved tremendously from last season,” Iraola stated. “He’s done an excellent job defensively. His physical conditioning enables him to continuously push into the attacking third with control, and while he didn’t record many assists last year, his decision-making and quality of crosses have greatly improved this season.” Liverpool fans will be hoping that Kerkez’s precise deliveries will thrive at Anfield, marking him as a valuable player both now and for the future.