Manchester City Eyes €50M Deal for Real Madrid Cast-Off
Guardiola’s team looks to bounce back after a trophyless season by targeting former Madrid-linked left-back Milos Kerkez
With the season nearing its end, top European clubs are intensifying their efforts to strengthen their squads for the upcoming summer transfer window. Real Madrid, fresh off announcing the signing of Dean Huijsen, is actively pursuing further reinforcements—specifically Trent Alexander-Arnold and Álvaro Carreras—for the upcoming Club World Cup. But they’re not the only giants in the market. Manchester City, under Pep Guardiola, is also planning significant moves after a disappointing campaign.
Following a season deemed disastrous by the club’s high standards—where their only silverware was the Community Shield, won on penalties against Manchester United—City is looking to revamp. The prolonged absence of Rodri Hernández was a major blow, and defensive injuries further destabilized Guardiola’s back line. As a result, City is now eyeing a transfer that Real Madrid previously considered but passed on.
According to the Daily Mail, Manchester City is pursuing Milos Kerkez, the 21-year-old Hungarian left-back currently at Bournemouth. Kerkez has emerged as one of the Premier League’s breakout stars this season under coach Andoni Iraola, notching two goals and five assists across 40 appearances. Known for his solid defensive skills and attacking support, he fits the mold of a modern full-back.
Real Madrid had considered signing Kerkez earlier in the season, particularly after their move for Alphonso Davies fell through due to the Canadian’s steep wage demands. Davies eventually extended his contract with Bayern Munich for a net salary of €15 million per year, along with a hefty signing bonus. Madrid opted instead to go with Álvaro Carreras.
Liverpool in the Lead
Liverpool, also eager to reinforce its defense, is reportedly leading the race for Kerkez. Multiple sources indicate that the young full-back could be playing at Anfield next season. Meanwhile, the Premier League champions (City) are close to finalizing a deal for Jeremie Frimpong and have already secured goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who had been on loan at Valencia.
If Manchester City truly wants to land Kerkez, they’ll need to act fast. Liverpool may have gained a crucial edge through their new sporting director Richard Hughes—formerly with Bournemouth—who is said to be pushing talks forward. Kerkez is under contract with Bournemouth until 2028, but a fee in the range of €45–50 million could seal the deal.
The ball is now in Guardiola’s court—if he’s quick enough to make the play.
