Manchester City transfer update: Pep Guardiola's side 'rival' Liverpool for Premier League defender in summer window

Manchester City have reportedly entered the race to sign Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth, with the club set to battle Liverpool for his signature.

The Citizens have all but secured Champions League football following their 3-1 victory against Bournemouth on Tuesday night.

However, boss Pep Guardiola's side were beaten in the FA Cup final on Saturday, with the club failing to win silverware for the first time in eight years.

It would not be surprising to see Guardiola backed with significant funds in the summer in order to correct the mistakes of the 2024-25 season and rival champions Liverpool.

The i Paper claim that City are ready to compete for the signature of Kerkez and are willing to spend the necessary funds to sign the £45m-rated left-back.

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Does Kerkez make sense for City?

Kerkez is an immense athlete and is able to make repeated high-intensity runs on the left flank, attacking the opposition's final third at pace.

Though the 21-year-old plays on the left, his intense play style would help replace the speed of legendary right-back Kyle Walker.

Kerkez's arrival would almost certainly mean that Josko Gvardiol, who has played on the left side of a back four at times, would be utilised as a centre-back.

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Can City beat Liverpool to the title?

If Manchester City are to catch rivals Liverpool and reclaim their title, they will likely need to find a way of attaining 15 to 20 extra points.

The return of defensive midfielder Rodri could help close that gap, and Kerkez would strengthen their defence, but the departing Kevin De Bruyne will need to be replaced.

De Bruyne was arguably the most creative player in the Premier League during his time at the Etihad, and Guardiola must find new ways of feeding striker Erling Haaland with chances.

Written by
Lewis Nolan