Report: Liverpool ramp up rebuild with Jeremie Frimpong and Milos Kerkez in sight

The Premier League champions, fresh off a stunning 20th title under Arne Slot, aim to reshape their squad to sustain their dominance.

Frimpong, a dynamic right-back, appears set to become Liverpool's first signing. Reports indicate the Reds are in the final stages of talks with Leverkusen and Frimpong's representatives, with his release clause valued at around 35 million euros, plus additional payments nearing 40 million euros.

Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano revealed, that the deal is nearly complete. "Everything is almost agreed between Jeremie Frimpong, his representatives, and Liverpool," Romano said. "It could be a matter of days." He added that Liverpool contacted Leverkusen to discuss payment terms, highlighting Frimpong's desire to join and Slot's familiarity with the Dutch star.

The 24-year-old, who contributed 14 goals and 12 assists last season, is seen as the ideal replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold, who is expected to depart for Real Madrid. Frimpong's attacking flair and versatility, he has played both right-back and wing-back, make him a perfect fit for Slot's system.

Meanwhile, Liverpool have set their sights on Kerkez to address their left-back needs. The 21-year-old Hungarian has impressed at Bournemouth, recording two goals and five assists in 36 Premier League matches this season.

Sources suggest Bournemouth would allow Kerkez to leave for approximately 45 million pounds, a fee Liverpool are well-positioned to meet. "Liverpool are closing in on the signing of Milos Kerkez," journalist Jonathan Northcroft said, emphasizing the Reds' determination to outpace rivals like Chelsea, Manchester City, and Real Madrid.

The interest in Kerkez stems from the need for a long-term successor to Andy Robertson, with Kostas Tsimikas deemed insufficient as a regular starter. Liverpool's sporting director, Richard Hughes, who previously signed Kerkez for Bournemouth from AZ Alkmaar in 2023, is reportedly driving the pursuit. 

A May 13 report from Caught Offside noted that Liverpool have held talks with Bournemouth and are prepared to sell Tsimikas if the deal is finalized.

Slot's influence has been pivotal. Having outperformed expectations with Jurgen Klopp's inherited squad, bolstered only by Federico Chiesa in 2024, the Dutch manager now seeks players to match his vision. Frimpong and Kerkez, both young and attack-minded, align with his high-energy, possession-based style.

The presence of Dutch stars like Virgil van Dijk, Ryan Gravenberch, and Cody Gakpo could ease Frimpong's transition, as Romano highlighted.

Liverpool's proactive approach signals their intent to maintain their Premier League supremacy. With Frimpong's move nearing completion and Kerkez a top target, the Reds are poised to make a bold statement in the transfer market.