Milos Kerkez was largely unheard of by Premier League fans last year, but is now being sought after by Europe’s biggest clubs – and it’s no wonder why.
The 20-year-old Hungarian flew to the English club in the summer of 2023, signing for AFC Bournemouth after impressing for Eredivisie side AZ Alkmaar. He came with extensive experience as he has captivated his fans by scoring goals in Serbia, Austria, Hungary, Italy and the Netherlands.
But what makes Kerkez so special, and why do big clubs like Arsenal and Manchester United want to shell out money for the left-back?
Here’s everything you need to know about Bournemouth’s hidden gem.
Kerkez was born in Vrbas, Serbia and started his playing career at local school OFK Vrbas. From here, he moved to the Austrian side Rapid Wien, about 500km from his hometown.
Packing and moving became a regular part of Kerkez’s life, and it wasn’t long before he moved to his third country, Hungary, to play for Gyor. In 2021, he moved to AC Milan after being persuaded by club legend Paolo Maldini to join the Italian club.
He could not get out of the youth ranks, so he left the club in search of higher football. Here, he found Dutch side AZ – establishing himself as one of the most interesting young prospects in the game.
Bournemouth caught wind of their success and wanted in on the action – but had to avoid competition from rivals Benfica and Lazio to secure their man last summer.
There’s a lot to like about Kerkez’s game, which provides strength in both attack and defense while posing a huge threat in pressing situations.
He is used as a left-back for Bournemouth, but is often found playing in advanced positions as a winger, due to his tactical awareness and dominance on the ball. Kerkez thrives in one-on-one situations, taking on opponents in both open spaces and tight spaces to win again.
The Hungarian is versatile, unpredictable and incredibly confident – some teams would find it difficult to contain him.
Kerkez epitomizes the classic modern defender, who excels in defensive duties but also adds a wealth of talents to offensive play – both depth and width. His speed is excellent, helping to drive the ball in the build-up of the play while planning his future moves before they happen.
Kerkez’s biggest setback may have come from his mind, rather than his physical. The Bournemouth star is known for acting on his emotions, even calling himself ‘crazy’ when he first moved to the Premier League.
There’s a fine line between confidence and arrogance, and Kerkez often dances on the cracks between the two. His hunger has been driving him to achieve more, saying goodbye to clubs for the second time feeling unappreciated.
As a youngster, he was known for his striking – something we saw last season against Wolverhampton Wanderers. Kerkez was shown a straight red after a heavy challenge on Matt Doherty, and missed the next three games before returning for the Cherries’ final game of the season.
If Kerkez can control his emotions, and not act impulsively, he will be an irresistible force.
Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa have all been linked with the Bournemouth star – but a future move still looks uncertain.
Of the clubs, United have been linked with a left-back ahead of the 2024/25 season following a campaign in which Luke Shaw and Tyrell Malacia made a combined 15 appearances.
Arsenal also appear keen and may want to sell Oleksandr Zinchenko to make room for a new left-back in their bid for a first Premier League title since 2004.
The summer transfer window is now open, and Kerkez’s future club may be decided soon.
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