Dominik Szoboszlai played his cards close to his chest when quizzed about Milos Kerkez's potential switch to Liverpool. The Reds are optimistic about clinching a deal for the Hungarian defender, valued at $61 million (£45 million) by Bournemouth.
Liverpool's search for a new left-back has been well-documented, with the club looking to secure a long-term replacement for Andy Robertson. Surprisingly, Atletico Madrid has now emerged as contenders for Robertson's signature, with the Scot expressing uncertainty over his future at Anfield earlier in the week.
While Szoboszlai and Kerkez share a bond off the pitch, the midfielder remained coy on the subject of his compatriot's move to Merseyside, telling Nemzeti Sport, "I don't know about him...for now," when pressed for an update.
In contrast, Szoboszlai was in the loop regarding Liverpool's acquisition of Armin Pecsi, the promising young goalkeeper who joined from Puskas Akademia after impressing in Hungary's top division.
The 20 year old, already capped at Under-21 level for Hungary and shortlisted for the 2025 Golden Boy award, was a topic Szoboszlai was more forthcoming about, admitting he had prior knowledge of the move: "A little earlier than you, based on inside information. I say, come there and enjoy it!
"Work hard every day, I think you know exactly what your goal is, you're determined enough; otherwise, you wouldn't have gotten to the club. Hard work will pay off in time."
Liverpool is expected to complete the signing of Kerkez, with Robertson admitting there are doubts over his future, with just one year remaining on his contract.
Liverpool looks set to target Milos Kerkez next
Liverpool looks set to target Milos Kerkez next (Image: Getty Images)
He said: "You know the club have been... we've had good discussions with me and the club but what the future holds I am not sure.
"I know the position I am in and I have only got a year left and a lot is getting spoken about and getting said but my full focus is, you know, focusing on being a dad for the next couple of weeks and enjoying that time with the kids.
"The club have identified certain positions where they want to get new blood in, it looks like players we're linked to are all younger players and they are all exciting players as well.
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"So when you play for a big club like Liverpool you expect challenges, you expect competition and I have always faced that, everyone here has faced that in their own positions and I expect nothing less."
Pecsi will be joined by another player arriving in July, Valencia keeper Giorgi Mamardashvili. Additionally, the Reds already have agreed on a deal with Bayer Leverkusen to sign Florian Wirtz, following the arrival of teammate Jeremie Frimpong.
Liverpool will pay $157 million for the 22 year old. The club had an initial bid rejected but have now reached an agreement for the British record transfer.