Top target: Liverpool confident they're leading race to sign £45m "mad man"
da doce： Liverpool are now confident they’re leading the race for a defender, who has been identified as a top target for the summer transfer window, according to a report.
Reds set sights on new full-backs
da betcris： Virgil van Dijk has committed his future to the Reds, in a major boost for Arne Slot, but the manager may still be tasked with reshaping his defence in the summer transfer window, as Trent Alexander-Arnold has now confirmed his decision to leave.
With Trent heading for the exit door, Slot may choose to install Conor Bradley as his first-choice right-back, but there have also been links with Bayer Leverkusen star Jeremie Frimpong, with the Dutchman believed to be keen on a move to Anfield.
Not only may a new right-back be required, but Slot could also look at bringing in a replacement for Andy Robertson, with the Scotland international now arguably in the twilight years of his career at the age of 31.
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Jamie Carragher also suggested Robertson was past his best earlier in the campaign, saying: “I just think Andy Robertson, who is an absolute legend, is just hanging on in every game.”
According to a report from TEAMtalk, AFC Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez is now the top target for Liverpool at left-back, with his current employers set to hold out for a fee of £45m, amid widespread interest in his signature.
Real Madrid and Manchester City are also keen on the Hungarian, with the Spanish side scouting him this season, but the Reds believe they are still leading the race.
"Mad man" Kerkez could be ideal Robertson heir
The Hungary international has established himself as a vital player for Bournemouth this season, making 36 appearances in the Premier League, during which time he has showcased his attacking threat by picking up two goals and six assists.
Robertson is also very capable on the front foot, having amassed 67 assists during his time with the Reds, so the Bournemouth star could be a like-for-like replacement in that regard, while he has also caught the eye of journalist Zach Lowy.
Bournemouth teammate Marcus Tavernier is clearly a big fan of the 21-year-old too, saying: “He’s a mad man! He’s great, I love that guy to pieces. He brings a lot of energy to the team when it’s quiet and stuff. He has come into the team and been great.”
Having proven himself in the Premier League, Kerkez could be the ideal replacement for Robertson this summer, and Liverpool should look to secure a deal before Real Madrid or Man City step up their interest.