Trent Alexander-Arnold, a fundamental source of creativity, has already departed Anfield, with Andy Robertson also linked with an exit. Should the deal be completed, Kerkez is seen as a long-term replacement for the left-back role the Scotland international has made his own over the last eight years.

Liverpool are making big alterations to their defence this summer. Milos Kerkez’s arrival from Bournemouth looks imminent - with the 21-year-old set to replace Andy Robertson as the Reds’

"I think you can probably look at any run of fixtures in the Premier League and think there's one or two tricky ones in there or one or two that look tricky to Liverpool. But to have Bournemouth, Newcastle and Arsenal before that first international break is as tough as it would have got.

Liverpool face a difficult run of games to begin their Premier League title defense next season, opening with a home clash against Bournemouth before facing Newcastle United (away) and Arsenal (home).

The new season opens with champions Liverpool on Friday night at Anfield against Bournemouth, with the first round offering plenty of excitement over four days