Liverpool are closing in on a deal for Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez.
According to the i Paper, Kerkez has long been identified as Andy Robertson's long-term replacement but Liverpool are facing strong competition for his signature.
With Real Madrid, Manchester United, Manchester City and Arsenal all having expressed an interest in the left-back, it has prompted the Reds to speed up the process as contact has been made with Kerkez's representatives as well as Bournemouth.
Whilst no bid has been tabled yet, it is understood that Bournemouth will not sell for less than £40million.
In a boost for Arne Slot's side, Kerkez is said to favour a move to Liverpool over the other options as the club's director of football Richard Hughes - the man who brought him to to England - is one of the reasons the 21-year-old sees himself at Anfield.
The Hungary international has been one of the standout performers for Bournemouth this season, scoring twice and weighing in with five assists in 29 Premier League appearances so far.
Though Kerkez is seen as the long-term replacement for Robertson, the Scotland international insists he would welcome the challenge of a new left-back.
"I think we've been linked with pretty much every left-back in the world,” he said ahead of Scotland’s Nations League clash against Greece.
"That comes with playing with one of the greatest clubs in the world. I look back on these eight years I've had as the starting left-back at that club and I feel a lot of pride.
"Your time comes and I don't think it's my time yet but even if we do bring someone in, then so be it. I'll always back myself.
"Sure, this season there have been a couple of moments when I haven't covered myself in glory but some things have been taken way out of proportion.
I think we've been linked with pretty much every left-back in the world
"I think the performance levels have been there for me. I think I've had a relatively good season but one thing people will say about me is that's I've been pretty consistent, so when you make a couple of mistakes, then people can talk.
"That's the world we live in, that's the Premier League. Everyone has eyes on you, everyone has an opinion.
"It is what it is but I'm always confident in my ability. I've shown that right throughout my career but especially during my time at Liverpool."
