Liverpool have reportedly identified a new left-back target should they fail in their pursuit of Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez – while developments at Newcastle United have handed the Reds fresh hope in their ambitious bid to sign striker Alexander Isak.
The newly-crowned Premier League champions are preparing for a pivotal summer under incoming head coach Arne Slot, and recruitment is expected to be central to Liverpool’s plans as they aim to build on a title-winning campaign. With key areas of the squad needing reinforcement, the Merseysiders are targeting both defensive cover and a marquee attacking addition.
Kerkez, who impressed for Bournemouth during his debut season in the Premier League, has been on Liverpool’s radar for several months. The 20-year-old Hungarian is viewed as a long-term successor to Andy Robertson and would offer immediate competition at left-back. However, with interest in Kerkez growing across Europe, the Reds are believed to be considering back-up options should negotiations with Bournemouth stall or become overly inflated.
According to reports, Liverpool have turned their attention to VfB Stuttgart’s Hiroki Ito as a possible alternative. The Japanese international, who can operate as both a centre-back and left-back, fits the profile of a versatile, technically adept defender favoured by the Anfield recruitment team. Ito’s Bundesliga experience and tactical intelligence have drawn comparisons to Joël Matip, who is expected to depart Anfield at the end of his contract.
Meanwhile, the Reds have received a potential boost in their pursuit of Newcastle’s Alexander Isak, with Magpies boss Eddie Howe conceding this week that the club may need to make “difficult decisions” in the transfer market due to financial constraints.
Isak has enjoyed a standout campaign at St James’ Park, netting 20 league goals and earning plaudits for his intelligent movement, clinical finishing, and ability to lead the line. His performances have not gone unnoticed at Anfield, where he is seen as an ideal addition to lead a refreshed Liverpool attack.
Although Newcastle have been reluctant to part with their star striker, the club’s need to comply with the Premier League’s Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) could force their hand. With Liverpool able to offer Champions League football and a genuine shot at silverware, Isak may be tempted by the opportunity.
Liverpool’s interest is understood to be genuine, though any move would likely depend on outgoing transfers and whether the club prioritises strengthening the forward line over other areas. Darwin Núñez’s future remains uncertain, and if the Uruguayan were to move on, the funds could help finance a swoop for the Swedish forward.
As the summer window edges closer, Liverpool appear poised to move quickly and decisively in the market. With multiple targets identified across key positions, and a Premier League title boosting their appeal, the Reds could yet land one or two headline names—Kerkez or not.
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