Liverpool are reportedly leading the race to sign one of the Premier League’s most sought-after players, ahead of Manchester United and Manchester City.
Following Liverpool’s 1-1 draw with Bournemouth on Tuesday, manager Arne Slot responded to questions about potential January reinforcements, stating:
“I think you saw today that I can still strengthen the team or impact the game with the substitutes I have on the bench. Not for the first time this season, these players have helped us, that I could bring in.”
Liverpool have recently been linked with several players, including Greece youth international forward Stefanos Tzimas, who has tallied eight goals and two assists for 2. Bundesliga side FC Nurnberg this season. Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg reports that Liverpool have already initiated talks with Nurnberg regarding Tzimas.
Other players linked to Anfield include Bryan Mbeumo, Antoine Semenyo, and Omar Marmoush, though Marmoush is reportedly more likely to join Manchester City. However, Liverpool appear to be leading the pursuit of Bournemouth’s highly-rated defender Milos Kerkez, with reports suggesting the Hungary international prefers a move to Anfield.
According to The i Paper, Manchester United, Manchester City, and Liverpool have all contacted Kerkez’s representatives, but Liverpool’s director of football, Richard Hughes, may play a pivotal role in securing the deal. Hughes, who previously worked at Bournemouth and facilitated Kerkez’s move there, is thought to influence the player’s preference for Liverpool.
While Bournemouth value Kerkez at around £50 million, they reportedly have no intention of selling him in January despite signing left-back Julio Soler from Lanus.
Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has praised Kerkez’s performances, calling him “a revelation at Bournemouth” and highlighting Liverpool’s need for support at left-back.
“He’s aggressive, has pace, and looks like a natural full-back,” Carragher said. “The sporting director who brought him to Bournemouth is now at Liverpool, which gives them an advantage.”
Kerkez has been a standout for Bournemouth this season, making 21 league appearances and impressing with his dynamic displays.
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