Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez is one of the most sought-after defenders on the transfer market.
According to Sky Sports, the 21-year-old is being tracked by Real Madrid, Liverpool and Manchester City ahead of the summer transfer window.
Kerkez joined Bournemouth from AZ Alkmaar in 2023. He impressed in his debut season but has taken his performances up a notch this term.
He has shown plenty of attacking flair, but not at the expense of his primary defensive duties.
He has a profile that’s difficult to come across in today’s market, and top clubs are set for an intriguing battle for his signature.
Kerkez’s balance has made him one of many standout players in an impressive Bournemouth side.
The Hungary international is set to leave the club this summer and is reportedly valued at £45 million.
It’s a matter of when rather than if, so it’s up to him to decide his next destination.
But he’d be more open to joining a club that guarantees him a leading role rather than playing second fiddle.
Liverpool are looking to move on Andrew Robertson and have identified Kerkez as a like-for-like replacement.
Sporting director Richard Hughes is a massive fan of Kerkez.
He was instrumental in getting the Hungarian to Vitality Stadium two years ago and is looking to repeat that trick at Anfield.
Over the past eight years on Merseyside, Robertson has been one of the best left-backs in the business.
But his performances this season have shown that he may have given his all to the Reds.
The Scotland international has one year left on his contract, and Liverpool may be obliged to let him see it out.
Bringing in Kerkez will allow for a smooth transition at the end of next season, but it’s not that straightforward.
Despite the emergence of Nico O’Reilly, Man City want to bolster their left-back options, and Kerkez ticks all the boxes.
Madrid are also in the mix. With Ferland Mendy approaching his 30s and Fran Garcia struggling, it wouldn’t be surprising if they prioritise Kerkez this summer.
