From Bournemouth to the Kop: Who is Milos Kerkez, Liverpool’s new signing?

Newly crowned English Premier League champions are in no mood to relinquish their crown without a stern test. Liverpool’s summer transfer window is almost at boiling point as they have so far acquired the services of Florin Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong, and are up with the announcement that Hungarian international Milos Kerkez has completed his medical and officially signed with the Premier League champions. The Reds, fresh off a title-winning campaign, have made a bold and strategic move in securing the services of one of the Premier League’s most promising young full-backs. 

But who exactly is Milos Kerkez? What does he bring to a Liverpool squad already brimming with talent and confidence under new manager Arne Slot? And how does the 21-year-old fit into the long-term blueprint of a side looking to stay atop English and European football? Let’s take a closer look at Liverpool’s latest acquisition and what his arrival signals for the future of the defending champions. 

The Journey: Who is Milos Kerkez? 

Born on November 7, 2003, in Vrbas, Serbia, Milos Kerkez's footballing journey is one that reflects ambition, resilience, and rapid growth. Although of Serbian birth, Kerkez represents Hungary at an international level, having moved there at a young age and advanced through the national team ranks. 

Kerkez began his youth career in Serbia but took his first significant leap when he joined Rapid Wien's youth setup in Austria. From there, his trajectory only ascended. He caught the attention of major scouts while playing for Hungarian side Győri ETO, earning a move to AC Milan in 2021. Though he didn’t make a senior appearance for the Rossoneri, training with the Italian giants helped sharpen his technical and tactical understanding of the game. 

In 2022, he transferred to Dutch side AZ Alkmaar, where he enjoyed a breakout season, becoming one of the Eredivisie’s most dynamic full-backs. His performances led to his Premier League debut with Bournemouth in the summer of 2023, where he quickly became a fan favourite for his fearless play, work ethic, and boundless energy. 

His performance last season: Kerkez at Bournemouth 

Kerkez’s 2024–25 campaign at Bournemouth was nothing short of impressive. In a side battling in the lower half of the Premier League, the Hungarian full-back managed to shine with standout performances that placed him on the radar of top clubs. In 38 Premier League appearances, Kerkez logged more than 3,300 minutes, contributing two goals and five assists—solid numbers for a left-back on a team that spent much of the season defending. But the stats only tell part of the story. What made Kerkez stand out was his relentless attacking ambition. He ranked among the top Premier League full-backs in several key metrics: 

• Crosses per 90 minutes: 3.8 (91st percentile among full-backs) 

• Tackles won per 90: 2.1 (85th percentile) 

• Progressive carries: 6.4 per 90 (87th percentile) 

• Chance creation from open play: 0.76 per 90 (top 10%) 

He was also one of the most heavily involved defenders in final-third touches and completed more take-ons than most of his positional peers, including some at top-six clubs. Defensively, Kerkez showed a maturity beyond his years. His positional awareness, pressing ability, and recovery speed allowed Bournemouth to defend higher up the pitch, even when outmatched. His tackle success rate of over 66% and ability to recover ground after an attacking run gave him the profile of a modern, high-octane full-back. 

Why Liverpool signed him: Strategy behind the move 

Kerkez’s arrival at Anfield was not a reactionary move—it was a calculated, data-driven decision from a club that has often been ahead of the curve when it comes to talent identification and squad planning. With Andy Robertson now 31 and beginning to experience the physical toll of years at the highest level, Liverpool were in the market for a left-back who could: 

* Compete with Robertson immediately 

* Grow into the long-term starter role 

* Fit Arne Slot’s tactical system 

Kerkez checks every box

Liverpool’s playing style under Slot emphasizes width, verticality, and intelligent pressing. In many ways, it mirrors Jürgen Klopp's philosophy, but with a more nuanced approach to overlapping full-backs and controlled possession. Slot’s approach requires full-backs to be technical, quick decision-makers who can contribute to the attack without compromising defensive shape. 

Kerkez, with his Eredivisie roots and Premier League seasoning, is tailor-made for this system. His experience with Bournemouth—often under duress—has honed his defensive discipline, while his natural instincts in the final third align perfectly with Liverpool’s need to refresh their flank play. 

Fitting Into the Champions: What Role Will He Play? 

Make no mistake; Kerkez is not being brought in as a backup. While Andy Robertson still commands respect and remains a top-tier left-back, the introduction of Kerkez is meant to foster immediate competition and allow for seamless rotation across a demanding campaign that will include the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, domestic cups, and potentially the expanded FIFA Club World Cup. Kerkez can slot into the first XI without a drop-off in intensity.

His ability to cover ground quickly will allow him to operate in a hybrid role—sometimes pushing high to overlap wingers like Luis Díaz or Cody Gakpo, and sometimes tucking in to help midfielders break the press. 

With the recent departure of Kostas Tsimikas, the left-back depth chart had a clear void. Kerkez arrives not just to fill it, but to elevate it. Additionally, his youth and ceiling mean Liverpool is also investing in the future of their backline. Alongside younger defenders like Jarell Quansah, Conor Bradley, and possibly new CB additions, Kerkez could be a cornerstone of a new era of Liverpool defending. 

What the fans can expect 

Kerkez brings with him an infectious intensity that fans at Anfield will appreciate immediately. He’s known for his gritty tackles, surging runs, and ability to play with his heart on his sleeve. But beyond the passion is a player of real technical quality and tactical intelligence. 

Expect him to: 

1. Stretch the pitch and create 2v1 situations in wide areas 

2. Press high and recover quickly, helping Liverpool win the ball back early 

3. Whip in dangerous deliveries, especially on quick transitions 

4. Develop a strong connection with attackers, potentially mirroring the Robertson-Mané dynamic from years past. In big games—particularly at home—his style will help Liverpool dominate territory and apply constant pressure on opponents. 

International pedigree: A rising star for Hungary 

On the international stage, Kerkez has become a key figure for Hungary, already amassing over 25 senior caps despite being only 21. He was instrumental in Hungary’s qualification campaign for Euro 2024 and started in every group-stage match in Germany, earning praise for his performances against both Italy and Switzerland. His presence at the international level is further proof of his maturity and versatility. Liverpool is not only signing a Premier League-ready player, but one with valuable experience in big matches. His presence at the international level is further proof of his maturity and versatility. Liverpool is not only signing a Premier League-ready player, but one with valuable experience in big matches. 

Liverpool’s move for Milos Kerkez is more than a reinforcement—it's a statement of intent. At a time when the Reds could have rested on their laurels after reclaiming the Premier League title, they’ve chosen to look ahead, invest in youth, and challenge every position in the squad. The reported £40 million fee, while significant, reflects the belief that Kerkez is not just a prospect, but a player ready to contribute now. If he adapts quickly and builds chemistry with his teammates, he could be one of the Premier League’s breakout stars next season. 

For Milos Kerkez, the journey from Vrbas to Anfield has been fast and furious. But the real challenge—and the most significant opportunity of his young career—starts now, under the bright lights of Merseyside, wearing the famous red shirt of Liverpool. If his track record is anything to go by, he won’t just survive the pressure—he’ll thrive in it.