New Liverpool signing Milos Kerkez has revealed that conversations with manager Arne Slot were instrumental in his decision to join the club from Bournemouth for £40 million. The left-back, who impressed during his stint with the Cherries, becomes the third major arrival at Anfield this summer.
Kerkez, 21, had attracted interest from several clubs but was swayed by a meeting with Liverpool chief Richard Hughes—who had previously signed him for Bournemouth—and a detailed discussion with Slot. The Hungarian international explained that Slot outlined tactical plans and areas for improvement, which convinced him that Liverpool was the right choice.
“As everyone knows, [Richard Hughes] brought me to Bournemouth and was a big part why I came to Bournemouth. Obviously also [important] is the gaffer – I also had talks with him. I really knew when I talked to him and Richard that this is it for me,” Kerkez told the club's website. “We talked about the tactics and the plan and where he sees where I can improve and where I can help the team. When the coach comes and talks to you, it’s a big sign of respect. For me, there were no second doubts then that I want to go somewhere else. It was always Liverpool.”
Kerkez joins Jeremie Frimpong and Florian Wirtz as Liverpool's new recruits this summer, with Wirtz arriving from Bayer Leverkusen in a British-record £116 million deal. The defender admitted that moving to Liverpool had long been a family dream, and the reality is still sinking in. “I called my brother and he’s like, ‘You have a Liverpool kit on, a Liverpool badge’ and still you cannot really believe it. It’s a really honoured moment and a privilege for my family and especially for me,” he added.
