Milos Kerkez showcased his loyalty by sending a heartfelt message to Dean Huijsen, the former Liverpool target who has completed a £50m move to Real Madrid. The Spanish defender was officially unveiled as a Real Madrid player on Tuesday, following an impressive debut season with Bournemouth.
Kerkez shared his thoughts on the move by reposting an Instagram post from Huijsen on his story, adding a red heart emoji. Huijsen is set to make his debut for Real Madrid in the coming weeks and will be joined by ex-Liverpool right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has also been signed by the Spanish giants.
There were reports in Spain that Kerkez was also being eyed by Madrid, with El Chiringuito suggesting they could swoop for him if their proposed deal for Alvaro Carreas fell through. However, while no deal has been finalised for the Benfica defender, it appears Kerkez is set on a move to Anfield.
Huijsen revealed that his heart was always set on Real Madrid and he had no intention of going elsewhere, despite interest from a host of Premier League teams. He stated: "A lot was said but I just concentrated on my football, giving everything at Bournemouth and trying to finish the season in the right way.
"I wanted to be here from the first day; once Real Madrid called I didn't have eyes for any other teams. For me, Real Madrid is the best club in the world and there is no other club when they appear.
"I fit very well the football that Xabi wants to play and I am going to try to contribute to the team; anything I can do to help, I'm delighted to do so. We have spoken a bit about what he expects from me, and I think these will be nice years. Bringing the ball out is something I have, as well as defending.
"I think I have shown I am ready. I'm here to help the team and [as for] the demands here: I want to win titles too. I'm not here to not win titles."
Liverpool are keen on adding Hungarian left-back Kerkez, but Bournemouth's £45m price tag poses a significant barrier.
There are hurdles to overcome but Liverpool defender Andy Robertson offered a positive update, though his place in the team would be at risk. He said: "We're not daft, it looks as if a deal could potentially be done. But, until that is done, I've not even given that a second thought.
"I back myself. I've got confidence in my own ability and that drives me forward. I've had eight fantastic years at Liverpool in terms of winning trophies and being a mainstay in the team, which I'm incredibly proud of.
"I'm not getting any younger. I can't change my age, but I still believe I've got a lot to give and that's what I focus on. I focus on myself – you can't focus on other people or who you're competing with."