Justin Kluivert shared his thoughts on Milos Kerkez’s anticipated move to Liverpool this summer, expressing no ill feelings towards his departing Bournemouth teammate.
For weeks, it has been widely speculated that Kerkez is all but joining Liverpool.
Andy Robertson, who is likely to see his position challenged by the incoming player, hinted at this while on international duty for Scotland. “We’re not naïve,” he remarked, acknowledging that a deal seems very possible.
Kluivert echoed this sentiment when asked about Kerkez’s potential transfer: “He will probably go there,” he told Voetbal Primeur. While Robertson took a more assertive approach, stating,
“I back myself,” and expressing confidence in his abilities, Kluivert focused on wishing his colleague well in the next chapter of his career.“
I hope so for him,” the 26-year-old said.
“He hasn’t really said goodbye yet, but I hope he makes it happen there.”
Kerkez made the switch to Bournemouth two years ago from AZ Alkmaar in a deal worth around £18 million ($24.5 million).
The Cherries are poised to make a significant profit, with reports suggesting Liverpool is prepared to pay up to £45 million ($61.2 million) for the 21-year-old.
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s champions under Arne Slot have already invested £29.6 million ($39.8 million) in Jeremie Frimpong to fill the gap left by Trent Alexander-Arnold on the right side of defense.
With speculation about Jarell Quansah attracting attention from Erik ten Hag’s Bayer Leverkusen, Liverpool’s defensive adjustments might not be finished yet.
Bournemouth is already seeking to replace Kerkez, reportedly lining up Rennes captain Adrien Truffert as a potential arrival.
As Kerkez prepares to join a squad that includes Robertson and Kostas Tsimikas, it will be interesting to see if Liverpool opts to offload one of their left-back options.