Liverpool are confident they can get a deal to sign Bournemouth star Milos Kerkez over the line this summer, sources have told Football Insider.
Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke revealed the 21-year-old is Arne Slot’s top target ahead of the transfer window as they aim to sign a new left-back.
The Reds have been keeping a close eye on his performances for Bournemouth this season and believe he is the best available option in his position.
This comes after former Man United chief scout Mick Brown told Football Insider that Liverpool will meet Kerkez’s £40million asking price this summer.
Work has begun behind the scenes given their long-term interest in the Hungary international, who is believed to be open to the move.
Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on 7 March that Liverpool’s move for Kerkez is “progressing well” as Dominik Szoboszlai has played a key role in talks.
Liverpool eye Milos Kerkez after Andy Robertson latest
Kerkez has started all 35 of Bournemouth’s Premier League games so far this season, completing 90 minutes in every game since November.
His presence has been key to the Cherries’ progress as they currently occupy the Europa Conference League qualification spot.
As a result, Brown told Football Insider in February that Bournemouth want to keep their best players to build long-term success.
Liverpool’s interest, meanwhile, comes amid doubts over the future of Andy Robertson as Brown told Football Insider Slot wants to replace Robertson this summer.
There is a growing feeling at Anfield that, while the Scotland international remains an important player, the signing of a younger option will be necessary to plan for the future.
Nottingham Forest plot move to sign Harvey Elliott
As Liverpool continue to eye reinforcements for Slot’s squad this summer, they are also open to letting players leave in a bit to refresh the manager’s options.
Football Insider exclusively revealed on 9 May that Harvey Elliott is a target for Nottingham Forest if they lose Morgan Gibbs-White to Man City.
A number of Premier League clubs including Wolves, Bournemouth and Newcastle are also believed to be keeping a close eye on his situation.
Football Insider revealed on 21 March that Elliott has been disappointed with his playing time since Slot arrived and would be open to a move away.
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