Respected journalist Paul Joyce has disclosed key details about Milos Kerkez’s £40 million move to Liverpool—details that the club’s official statement on June 26, 2025, left out. While Liverpool confirmed the signing of the 21-year-old Hungarian left-back from Bournemouth on a “long-term deal,” they did not specify the contract length. Joyce, reporting for The Times, clarified that Kerkez signed a five-year deal running until 2030, giving fans a clearer picture of Liverpool’s plans under new manager Arne Slot.
In a post on X, Joyce explained that the £40 million fee—which sets a new record for Liverpool’s most expensive full-back—includes performance-based add-ons. Bournemouth initially demanded £45 million but ultimately agreed to the lower figure.
This transfer, managed by Liverpool’s sporting director Richard Hughes—the same person who signed Kerkez for Bournemouth from AZ Alkmaar in 2023—is Liverpool’s third major signing of the summer, following the arrivals of Florian Wirtz (£116m) and Jeremie Frimpong (£29.5m).
Liverpool’s total spending now reaches £187 million, factoring in Ármin Pécsi’s £1.5m signing, although they’ve recouped £35 million through Jarell Quansah’s transfer to Bayer Leverkusen.
Kerkez, who was ever-present in Bournemouth’s Premier League campaign last season with 38 appearances, tallying two goals and six assists, is expected to be a strong competitor for the left-back spot. This comes as uncertainty surrounds Andy Robertson’s future amid interest from Atlético Madrid and an ACL injury that could sideline him for six to nine months.
According to Joyce, Kerkez is initially intended to compete with, not replace, Robertson. His impressive stats—169 ball recoveries and 142 crosses—indicate he’s well-suited to Arne Slot’s high-pressing style. Upon signing, Kerkez told Liverpool’s website, “It’s a real honour to play for the biggest club in England.”
Fans on X praised Joyce for providing transparency, with one commenting, “Paul Joyce always delivers what LFC won’t tell us!” Others voiced disappointment at the club’s vague announcement, questioning the lack of key contract details.
Joyce’s report underscores Liverpool’s strategy of investing in young, high-potential players. However, there are still concerns about squad depth, especially with Robertson injured and Real Madrid reportedly interested in Ibrahima Konaté. As Liverpool turns its focus toward signing Marc Guéhi from Crystal Palace, Joyce’s insights give fans a clearer view of the club’s careful planning to remain competitive in the Premier League