Milos Kerkez's Arrival Set to Shake Up Four Key Liverpool Stars
Florian Wirtz has emerged as Liverpool's marquee acquisition this summer, but the Merseyside club has also moved quickly to strengthen their defensive line through strategic transfers.
Jeremie Frimpong has arrived from Bayer Leverkusen to fill the void left by Trent Alexander-Arnold at right-back, while changes are also occurring on the left flank. Milos Kerkez has completed his move from Bournemouth, with Liverpool investing £40 million ($54.5 million) in the promising 21-year-old—this purchase pushes the club's expenditure to unprecedented levels for a single transfer window.
The reigning Premier League titleholders already possess an exceptional squad but will enjoy enhanced depth and talent in their roster for the upcoming season. Though Kerkez's acquisition brings excitement for Liverpool fans, it could create challenges for several current squad members.
Below are four players whose situations will be significantly influenced—both positively and negatively—by Kerkez's arrival.
Andy Robertson
Andy Robertson stands as the player most negatively affected by Kerkez's signing. The 31-year-old veteran has served as Liverpool's primary left-back, but his noticeable deterioration has been a driving force behind the club's search for a successor.
Kerkez is viewed as Robertson's natural replacement. Both players share an attacking mindset and impressive stamina, with the Hungarian displaying characteristics similar to a younger version of his future colleague.
Given Liverpool's ambition to defend their Premier League crown while competing seriously in the Champions League and cup tournaments, significant squad rotation is expected in 2025–26. Robertson featured in 45 matches for the Reds last season but may see his playing time diminish going forward, though he should still receive considerable opportunities.
Speculation has linked Robertson with Atlético Madrid, and he might consider the move given the impending competition for starting positions with Kerkez.
Kostas Tsimikas
Kostas Tsimikas already faced limited playing opportunities last season, and his situation is about to become more challenging. Liverpool's backup left-back has developed a devoted following during his Anfield tenure, but his unreliable displays when deputizing for Robertson have marginalized his role.
Tsimikas appeared in only 29 matches for Liverpool last campaign, with numerous appearances coming as a substitute. He will now become the club's third-choice left-back, and since he cannot contribute in other positions, a summer departure seems likely. A transfer becomes almost inevitable if Robertson remains at the club.
The Greek international's future on Merseyside appears uncertain—his deal runs until 2027 without renewal prospects—and Kerkez's signing might accelerate his exit.
Virgil van Dijk
Through Frimpong and Kerkez, Liverpool have acquired two of the most offensively-minded full-backs available. While the Hungarian shows more restraint than the former Leverkusen player, he remains an extremely forward-thinking presence who can contribute goals and assists through his adventurous runs along the touchline.
Though this development should excite Anfield supporters, it will likely increase Virgil van Dijk's workload. The Liverpool captain excels at covering vast areas and functioning as a single-handed defense when required, but he approaches his 34th birthday next month and may soon lose some pace.
Should Kerkez frequently venture forward along the left flank, Van Dijk could find himself vulnerable during counter-attacks. This might become a weakness that Liverpool's rivals attempt to exploit next season.
Luis Díaz
Although Kerkez doesn't threaten Luis Díaz's starting position, the Colombian forward will need to quickly develop chemistry with the newcomer. After collaborating almost exclusively with Robertson for several years, a natural connection has developed between them, but Kerkez will introduce a different approach.
This change could benefit Díaz, who will receive enhanced attacking assistance from an overlapping full-back capable of occupying defenders and creating opportunities for the 28-year-old to showcase his skills. However, establishing and perfecting any partnership will require time.
The signing might also alter Díaz's duties. While he doesn't shy away from defensive responsibilities, Kerkez's forward positioning could require the winger to retreat more often to cover spaces, which isn't his strongest attribute. Optimally, Liverpool prefers Díaz positioned near the opponent's penalty box.
Following an outstanding 2024–25 season with 17 goals and five assists, it will be fascinating to observe whether Díaz's productivity improves or declines with Kerkez operating on his flank.