'He'll probably go' - Milos Kerkez's teammate admits transfer to Liverpool is imminent as Reds continue strengthening Arne Slot's squad

While much of the current focus is on their record-breaking £100 million-plus bid for Bayer Leverkusen star Florian Wirtz, the club is also actively working to finalise a deal for Kerkez. Sporting director Richard Hughes is believed to be leading discussions regarding the Bournemouth left-back, with a fee in the region of £45 million ($61m) being discussed.

Kerkez is viewed as a long-term successor for Andy Robertson, who has anchored Liverpool’s left flank for several seasons. He enjoyed a stellar campaign under Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola, having started all 38 of Bournemouth’s Premier League fixtures last season, contributing two goals and six assists.

Speaking on international duty with the Netherlands, Kluivert revealed to Voetbal Primeur: "He'll probably go there. I hope so for him. He hasn't really said goodbye yet, but I hope he'll make it happen there."

Recognising that Kerkez’s departure is increasingly likely, Bournemouth have already begun planning for life without their first-choice left-back. According to reports, the Cherries are preparing a £14.4m ($19.5m) bid for Rennes defender Adrien Truffert as a direct replacement.

Liverpool’s pursuit of Kerkez is part of a broader summer strategy designed to refresh and strengthen the squad following their league title triumph. In addition to the ongoing talks with Bayer Leverkusen for Wirtz, the club has already completed two key signings.

Right-back Jeremie Frimpong joined from Leverkusen for £29.5m ($40m), stepping in for the departed Trent Alexander-Arnold. Meanwhile, the Reds secured Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia. Though technically signed last summer, his move was made official this window following the departure of backup keeper Caoimhin Kelleher to Brentford for £18m ($24.5m).