Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Image Credits: Getty Images

Liverpool’s pursuit of Milos Kerkez may have taken a significant step forward, judging by Bournemouth’s recent activity.

Valued at £40 million, the 21-year-old has emerged as Liverpool’s top defensive target under manager Arne Slot as the club seeks long-term reinforcement for Andy Robertson.

With current first-choice Andy Robertson now 31 years old, the club has identified the left defensive flank as a priority area for improvement.

While Robertson remains a respected figure at Anfield, concerns have emerged about his ability to maintain the high-intensity performances that Liverpool’s system demands.

Current backup Kostas Tsimikas is also not seen as a long-term replacement for the Scot and is nearing 30 himself.

His physical and technical profile seem the perfect fit for the Anfield club.

Milos Kerkez’s recent decision to switch agents to Fali Ramadani, who facilitated Federico Chiesa’s transfer to Liverpool in 2024, could simplify potential negotiations for a move to Anfield.

Speaking in March, Bournemouth owner Bill  Foley admitted that he would not stop any player from pursuing their dreams of playing at ‘bigger club’ with all due respect to Bournemouth:

“We have a lot of our players under long-term contracts and most do not have a release clause,” he said on talkSPORT.

“We never stand in the way of a player in the event they have an opportunity they feel is a better opportunity, but we’re trying to make sure we have a team and an environment that attracts good young players.”

And it seems the club is now aware that Kerkez is leaving the south coast this summer, at least if their transfer business is anything to go by.

Their £6.6 million acquisition of 19-year-old  left-back Julio Soler from Lanús in January raised eyebrows.

Now it has emerged that Bournemouth is also interested in 22-year-old fullback Hugo Bueno from Feyenoord, on loan from Wolves.

Bueno presents an intriguing proposition for the Cherries?

The 22-year-old Spaniard has logged 1,610 minutes across 26 appearances for Feyenoord this season, demonstrating both defensive solidity (2.3 tackles/game) and attacking verve (4 assists)

His loan club’s decision not to include a purchase option creates a clear path for Bournemouth to negotiate directly with Wolves, where Bueno remains under contract until 2028.

And the fact that the Cherries are now looking to sign yet another fullback after signing one in January can only be viewed positively by Liverpool fans wanting Kerkez at Anfield next season.

Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone