Liverpool set to announce Kerkez signing as Guéhi emerges as new defensive target

Kerkez deal near completion

Liverpool are on the verge of signing Bournemouth’s young left-back Milos Kerkez for a fee of £40 million. According to Fabrizio Romano and The Athletic, the transfer is at its final stage; the 21-year-old is expected to undergo a medical in the coming days and sign a long-term contract. This signing reflects Arne Slot’s clear vision in shaping the squad during his second summer in charge.

Richard Hughes’ role and the size of the offer

The negotiations are being directly led by sporting director Richard Hughes. Hughes, who brought Kerkez to Bournemouth from AZ Alkmaar in 2023, knows the player well and is seen as a key figure accelerating the process.

2024–25 performance and statistics

In the 2024–25 Premier League season, Kerkez enjoyed a true breakout year, starting in 37 of Bournemouth’s 38 matches. In total, he featured in 41 official matches across all competitions, scoring 2 goals and providing 6 assists. According to FBref data, he averaged 1.9 successful tackles, 2.2 ball recoveries and 1.6 progressive passes per match, showcasing a balanced contribution in both defensive duties and attacking transitions. He has also earned 23 caps for the Hungarian senior national team, further developing his international experience.

Is this the end for Robertson?

This transfer could mark the end of Andy Robertson’s eight-year spell at Liverpool. According to Sky Sports and The Guardian, Atlético Madrid are showing serious interest in the 31-year-old Scottish left-back, and the player is reportedly open to the move. Liverpool’s heavy investment in Kerkez signals a clear shift away from Robertson’s long-held role.

Wirtz signing signals midfield overhaul

Following a title-winning campaign, Arne Slot is using his second summer as manager not to rest on his laurels but to deepen the squad’s construction. A deal for Bayer Leverkusen’s Florian Wirtz, expected to cost a record £116.5 million, is imminent. Following the signing of Jeremie Frimpong, this would mark a second major acquisition from Leverkusen, reshaping Liverpool’s tactical framework.

Leverkusen move for Quansah

Meanwhile, 22-year-old Jarell Quansah is being linked with a move to Bayer Leverkusen. The Athletic reports that the German club are working on a proposal worth around €40 million for the young defender. Following Jonathan Tah’s move to Bayern Munich, Leverkusen see Quansah as a long-term solution. With limited opportunities at Liverpool, a switch to the Bundesliga is viewed as a sensible step for the player’s development.

Guéhi identified as replacement

In response, Liverpool have moved to strengthen their centre-back options, with Crystal Palace’s Marc Guéhi emerging as a prime target.

According to The Telegraph, the club is preparing an official bid. While Tottenham are also monitoring the situation, Liverpool are currently best positioned to secure the deal. Guéhi, who came through Chelsea’s academy before developing into one of the Premier League’s most dependable centre-backs, could play a key role in Slot’s defensive plans.