The Premier League is back this week for Liverpool, yet for most fans, the transfer window will be at the front of their minds.

This summer is expected to be a big one for the Reds, with Trent Alexander-Arnold’s expected move to Real Madrid likely to be one of many big-name dealings Liverpool will be involved with when the market opens for business.

With Liverpool keen on making five new signings, it’s going to be a busy off-season for the Anfield side, one that already sees the Reds head to Asia on a pre-season tour, having spent last summer in the United States.

And Liverpool appear to have taken a big step in trying to sign a main transfer target for next season.

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According to CaughtOffside, Liverpool have begun talks with Milos Kerkez’s representatives, with the AFC Bournemouth defender a key target for the Reds in their bid to improve the left-back position this summer.

As per the report, Liverpool are willing to meet the Cherries’ asking price for Kerkez, a fee that could be as much as £42m if Bournemouth are stubborn with letting go of their prized fullback in the transfer window.

Kerkez was lauded by Troy Deeney as ‘exceptional’ with the Hungarian international establishing himself this season as one of the most exciting defensive talents in Europe, as well as a player that Liverpool are keen to sign.

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And with talks now underway with the left-back’s representatives, there’s a good chance that Liverpool can agree a deal early with Bournemouth to bring the defender to Anfield, where the former AZ Alkmaar man could become a star under Arne Slot.

With Jamie Carragher urging Liverpool to bring in a new left-back, making an approach for Kerkez two whole months before the transfer window opens is a smart move from the Reds, who are seemingly keen to wrap up business as early as possible.

And Kerkez is a perfect first signing for the Merseyside giants, with the 21-year-old defender a player who will immediately improve Liverpool’s defence and will offer short-term and long-term support for a problem area.

Indeed, Liverpool’s squad will see huge changes in the summer, and signing Kerkez will be a popular move with supporters and one that could help Slot in the Dutchman’s mission to evolve the squad beyond what Jurgen Klopp left behind.