£45m Ace Chooses Liverpool Over Man City in Stunning Transfer Twist

In a stunning turn in the transfer market, Milos Kerkez has rejected a move to Manchester City in favour of joining Liverpool, sources confirm — a major win for Arne Slot as he shapes his squad ahead of next season.

The Bournemouth left-back, a standout for both club and country, was on the radar of both Liverpool and Manchester City, but it’s the Merseyside club who are now in advanced talks to secure the Hungary international. According to TEAMtalk journalist Fraser Fletcher, Liverpool’s interest dates back to September, with Slot identifying Kerkez as his top choice for the left flank.

Despite Manchester City’s long-standing pursuit, including ongoing interest revealed by FootMercato’s Sebastian Denis, the 20-year-old appears set for Anfield. Denis shared on X (formerly Twitter):

“Milos Kerkez was a priority but the player is heading to Liverpool. Manchester City is pushing hard for Rayan Aït-Nouri.
Understand that the Skyblues have already held talks with Wolverhampton and the Algerian international.”

The shift comes as City, under Pep Guardiola, look to regroup after a comparatively underwhelming campaign. They had to fight until the final matchday just to clinch a Champions League spot for the 2025/26 season. Meanwhile, Liverpool, under the new leadership of Arne Slot, clinched the Premier League title in April, a stunning achievement in the Dutchman’s first year at the helm.

According to TEAMtalk’s Rudy Galetti, Liverpool are “pushing” to finalise the deal swiftly, aware of a potential late bid from Bayern Munich. While Bournemouth reportedly value Kerkez at £45 million, insiders suggest Liverpool’s initial offer will come in below that mark. However, Bournemouth are in a strong negotiating position, having recently sold Dean Huijsen to Real Madrid for £50 million, and are under no pressure to let Kerkez go on the cheap.

The i Paper has echoed these reports, adding that Kerkez’s personal preference is a move to Liverpool, effectively ending City’s pursuit and pushing them toward a serious play for Rayan Aït-Nouri.

In related developments, Florian Wirtz has reportedly made his first major demand if he’s to consider a move to Liverpool, while one of Slot’s fringe players is understood to be nearing a departure from Anfield.

With Liverpool moving decisively and Manchester City recalibrating, the summer transfer window is shaping up to be as fierce off the pitch as it was on it.

Stay tuned for more updates as we continue to follow this developing story.