Liverpool are closing in on a deal for Florian Wirtz, and with the €45m signing of Bournemouth full-back Milos Kerkez also expected, the Reds might be assembling one of the most exciting left-sided pairings in Europe.
Since 2017, Andy Robertson has owned the left-back position at Anfield. But for the first time in eight seasons, he could lose his starting spot. With Kostas Tsimikas set to leave, Liverpool are preparing for the future—and Kerkez could be a game-changer.
The 21-year-old Hungarian has built a reputation as a relentless, forward-driving full-back. His famous 96th-minute goal against Newcastle showcased his stamina and attacking instincts, and his stats back it up. Last season, Kerkez ranked 2nd in the Premier League and 10th across Europe’s top five leagues for crosses into the penalty area.
This overlaps perfectly with Wirtz’s strengths.
At Bayer Leverkusen, Wirtz played as an inside forward on the left—essentially an attacking midfielder cutting in to dictate play. Liverpool may not use that role formally, but in Arne Slot’s system, Wirtz could tuck inside and become the creative heartbeat—if he has the right full-back behind him.
That’s where Kerkez comes in. His overlaps will pull defenders wide, giving Wirtz the time and space to work centrally—something he thrives on.
Wirtz is already among Europe’s elite:
🔥 Only Mohamed Salah and Florian Wirtz have registered 10+ goals and 10+ assists in Europe’s top five leagues in each of the past two seasons.
With Kerkez stretching defences and Wirtz cutting in to create, Liverpool could recreate the devastating dynamic once shared by Robertson and Mane. But this duo may raise the ceiling even further.
Robertson helped Philippe Coutinho shine and played a role in the rise of Luis Diaz and Cody Gakpo. Kerkez could now play a similar role in unleashing Wirtz’s Ballon d’Or potential—something Liverpool are clearly banking on with their record-breaking investment.
