Hungarian left-back Milos Kerkez is on the verge of joining Liverpool from Bournemouth — and he’s already made it clear which squad number he has his eyes on: the iconic No.3 shirt.
Kerkez, 21, has impressed this season with a series of consistent performances for Bournemouth, starting all 36 Premier League matches and playing a key role in their record-breaking points tally. Now, as Liverpool look to reinforce their left side ahead of the 2025/26 season, the Reds are close to sealing a deal for the rising star to compete directly with Andy Robertson for a place in Arne Slot’s starting XI.
According to sources within the club, Liverpool have begun talks with Bournemouth to agree on a transfer fee, and Kerkez is enthusiastic about the move. One of his conditions? The No.3 shirt.
Currently worn by Japanese international Wataru Endo, the number could soon become available if Endo moves on this summer — or shifts to the vacant No.6 jersey. With Endo struggling for minutes under new manager Arne Slot and starting just one Premier League match, a departure could be on the cards.
Speaking about his dream shirt number, Kerkez explained: “The No.3 shirt has always meant something special to me. I wore it when I first started playing football, and it reminds me of where I came from. If I’m lucky enough to wear that number at Liverpool, it would be a huge honour — and I’ll give everything to live up to it.”
Kerkez also addressed the challenge ahead: “I respect what Andy Robertson has achieved, but I’m not coming to sit on the bench. I want to push myself at the highest level and help Liverpool defend their title. I believe I’m ready for that.”
At the international level, Kerkez has been a mainstay for Hungary and performed well at UEFA Euro 2024, even though his team were eliminated on goal difference. His work ethic and durability have caught the eye of several top European clubs, but Liverpool are leading the race — and the promise of the No.3 shirt is another piece falling into place.
Should the transfer go through, Kerkez would be one of the first major signings under Arne Slot’s tenure, as the club prepares for a new era and aims to defend their Premier League crown in 2025.