Here’s a paraphrased version of the news article, streamlined for clarity and crafted with a sharper, more engaging tone for Leeds United fans:
Leeds Left to Regret as Liverpool Close in on £40m Milos Kerkez Transfer
Leeds United have been dealt a painful transfer blow as Liverpool are set to sign Milos Kerkez for £40 million just two years after Leeds missed their chance to land the Hungarian star for a fraction of that price.
Kerkez, now one of the Premier League’s standout young defenders, is on the verge of joining Arne Slot’s Liverpool side after a stellar season with Bournemouth, where he featured in all 38 league games and notched six assists. But the move stings for Leeds, who were one of the early clubs vying for his signature in 2023 while he was impressing at AZ Alkmaar.
Back then, Leeds were scouting left-backs to solve their defensive problems, with Junior Firpo struggling for form. Kerkez, just 19 at the time, was high on the list. However, despite interest from Leeds, Leicester, and Bournemouth, the Whites failed to act quickly allowing the Cherries to seal a £15.5m deal after Leeds’ relegation.
Fast forward to 2025, and that oversight could now cost Leeds dearly. Kerkez’s rise at Bournemouth has seen his market value skyrocket, culminating in this upcoming move to Liverpool, who are set to make him a key part of their squad moving forward.
The 20-year-old’s growth hasn’t gone unnoticed, with Kerkez himself acknowledging transfer talk earlier this year. Speaking to The Athletic, he said:
“Of course I see it. When people say they don’t read these things, they’re lying. But whether it’s good or bad, I just keep doing my job.”
Liverpool’s move for Kerkez comes amid a big summer of business at Anfield, with the Reds also sealing a record-breaking £116m deal for Florian Wirtz and signing Jeremie Frimpong for £29.5m. With Kerkez likely arriving, Greek international Kostas Tsimikas could be on the way out and Leeds are reportedly monitoring his situation as they seek reinforcements under Daniel Farke.
The Takeaway for Leeds Fans:
Leeds had the chance to sign a future star for cheap but hesitated. Now, with Liverpool ready to splash £40m, it’s another case of what might have been. The focus now shifts to how Leeds respond in the summer window—and whether they’ll avoid another near miss like this one.
