Liverpool gain huge boost as target reveals he would ‘prefer moving to Anfield’

Liverpool have received a significant transfer boost as Milos Kerkez is reportedly leaning towards a move to Anfield rather than joining one of Manchester's Premier League giants should he leave Bournemouth.

According to The i Paper, the £50million defender feels a stronger bond with Liverpool, largely thanks to the influence of Richard Hughes, the sporting director who orchestrated Kerkez's transfer to Bournemouth 18 months ago.

Hughes is said to play 'an important role' in convincing the 21-year-old to choose Liverpool over Pep Guardiola's reigning champions or Ruben Amorim's fighters.

Hughes, who joined Liverpool in June 2024 after a successful spell at Bournemouth, was instrumental in bringing Kerkez from AZ Alkmaar to the Premier League in 2023.

Furthermore, Kerkez shares a strong bond with Liverpool midfielder Dominik Szoboszlai, his captain in the Hungarian national team. This camaraderie is believed to be another compelling reason for Kerkez's interest in joining the Reds.

Bournemouth, who are currently performing well in the Premier League, recently signed 19-year-old left back Julio Soler from Argentinian club Lanus. While the arrival of Soler can be seen as a contingency for the possible departure of Kerkez.

However, Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola has stated that there are no plans to sell key players during the January transfer window.

Liverpool's interest in Kerkez is in line with their strategic planning for the future. With current left-back Andy Robertson in his 30s and Kostas Tsimikas at 28, the club is looking for a long-term successor to maintain depth and quality at the left-back position.

Although no formal offer has been made and Bournemouth are not under immediate pressure to sell, the combination of personal connections and strategic fit makes Liverpool an attractive destination for Kerkez.

The news will be a blow to Manchester United as they look to rebuild under Amorim, who took over from Erik ten Hag this season, but his side are 15th in the Premier League.

The Red Devils are struggling to find options at left-back, with Luke Shaw injured again and Tyrell Malacia just returning from a long-term injury.

Diego Dalot has come on but is more comfortable on the right, and many have suggested that left full-back, who would suit Kerkez, could be a priority area.