Liverpool’s left-back situation has dominated the headlines throughout the past six to 12 months.

As Andy Robertson’s level of performance began to noticeably decline during the season, it became clear that Arne Slot needed something new.

Kostas Tsimikas has been an excellent back-up across his five years at Liverpool, but the Greek was clearly not the answer as a successor to Robertson.

Liverpool complete signing of Bournemouth left-back Milos Kerkez	Milos Kerkez first words after Liverpool transfer as left back agrees 5-year deal	Milos Kerkez transfer confirmed – Liverpool unveil new £40m left-back

On Thursday, the saga was finally brought to a close as Liverpool officially announced the capture of Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth.

Kerkez looks like an exciting addition, and had long been expected to complete his move from Bournemouth.

However, according to journalist David Lynch, the 21-year-old was not the only left-back Liverpool sounded out over a move to Anfield.

Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images

Kerkez compared himself to John Arne Riise immediately after signing on Thursday, which should be music to supporters’ ears.

The Hungary international was many fans’ number one choice to take over duties from Robertson and he is set to add plenty to the Liverpool squad.

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Speaking to Anfield Index shortly after Kerkez’s unveiling, though, Lynch claimed it was not a foregone conclusion that he would become a Liverpool player.

“Sometimes when there’s been a target previewed for so long they end up going for an alternative,” he said.

“I think there was something in the links to [Rayan] Ait Nouri for example, I know he was a player they also liked.”

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“Maxim De Cuyper was someone who was also on the radar, there was some light contact there.

“But the further we’ve gone along with this it’s become clear that they were more back-ups and Milos Kerkez was very much the first choice at left-back if they could get him.”

Had Liverpool not been able to get the green light on Kerkez, De Cuyper would have been an interesting alternative.

An important starter for Champions League regulars Club Brugge and a fixture in the Belgian national team, the 24-year-old is clearly a talented player.

Although he may have missed out on joining Liverpool this time, we would suggest it may not be the end of the story for De Cuyper on Merseyside.

Liverpool are likely to need another new left-back next season when Robertson’s contract expires.

With Kerkez expected to be the clear first choice in 12 months time, there may be a window for De Cuyper to join as his back-up.