Milos Kerkez has been scouted and highly appreciated by many clubs across Europe but it is the Cherries who look set to sign the 19-year-old.
Bournemouth have reportedly agreed a deal with AZ Alkmaar for a package worth around £15.5 million for the Hungarian. They have hijacked Serie A club Lazio’s transfer, who looked set to sign him just days ago.
Fabrizio Romano has reported that Kerkez is now in England to complete his medical after personal terms were also agreed with the club. He is set to sign the official contract subsequently on Tuesday.
The 19-year-old has been touted by many as one of the brightest young full-backs in Europe. He started 33 games in the Eredivisie for Alkmaar last season and scored 5 goals and provided 3 assists in all competitions.
Kerkez started his career playing in Serbia, Hungary and Austria before signing for AC Milan’s youth academy in 2021. He then joined Alkmaar in January 2022.
He was called up for his national team for the first time last year and has made 8 appearances since then. The teenager was born in Serbia but is a Hungarian national.
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At such a young age, Kerkez had managed to break into the first team at Alkmaar and Hungary. He could also receive a chance to go straight into Bournemouth’s first team as Matias Vina’s loan from AS Roma has expired.
The Cherries’ biggest priority in this transfer window was said to be left-back after not only Matias Vina but also Jordan Zemura left the club. Lloyd Kelly filled in at left-back last season but has transitioned into a centre-back.
Kerkez is a modern-day full-back with an attacking mindset. Andoni Iraola will have to work with him to improve his defensive skills but at just 19 years of age, Iraola and his coaches can mould him into a more balanced player while still preserving his natural raw talent.
Bournemouth were only just promoted last season and their main goal was to survive the drop. They did so despite a challenging start to the season.
Under new ownership, they are looking to take the next step. They have already added Justin Kluivert and Romain Faivre to their squad and are also preparing a bid for Bristol City’s Alex Scott after they finalise Kerkez’s transfer.
