Liverpool have made AFC Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez their prime summer target after wrapping up much of the groundwork on a deal for right-back Jeremie Frimpong.
Sources tell CaughtOffside that Bournemouth signalled willingness to sell the Hungary international for about £45 million, a price the Reds believe is manageable under Financial Fair Play.
Slot seeks full-back revamp
Incoming manager Arne Slot faces the double task of replacing outgoing stalwart Trent Alexander-Arnold and preparing for life after Andrew Robertson.
Frimpong is lined up for the right flank, while 21-year-old Kerkez is viewed as a dynamic successor to Robertson on the left.
Competition and outgoings
Chelsea and Manchester City have also enquired about Kerkez, ensuring Liverpool cannot afford complacency in negotiations.
The Merseysiders are ready to off-load reserve full-back Kostas Tsimikas to balance the books should the Kerkez deal be struck.
Path to agreement
Bournemouth’s clarity on price may accelerate talks, and Liverpool insiders are confident their Premier League title win and Champions League football give them an edge.
Kerkez, who joined Bournemouth last summer, impressed with his athletic overlaps and robust defensive work, attributes Slot values in a high-press system.
Liverpool’s board believes a swift resolution on both full-back positions will allow the club to focus on midfield depth and striking reinforcements later in the window.