Milos Kerkez: Bournemouth's New Hungarian Left Back

After narrowly avoiding the drop in their return to the Premier League last season, Bournemouth have strengthened their defensive core by signing Milos Kerkez to a long-term contract, paying £15.5 million and beating out the likes of Lazio and Benfica to the 19-year-old left back. Having conceded 71 goals, the third-worst tally in the Premier League last season, and scored 38 goals, the third-worst tally in the Premier League, Bournemouth will be hoping that the Hungarian international will not only help shore up the defense but also provide immense attacking prowess down the left flank.

The Cherries have been busy in the transfer market, completing a permanent deal for Hamed Junior Traorè, who arrived on loan from Sassuolo in January, whilst also sealing a deal for Justin Kluivert as well as purchasing Romain Faivre before loaning him back to Lorient, where he spent the second half of last season. They have also sacked Gary O'Neil and appointed Spanish manager Andoni Iraola, who'll be looking to shift Bournemouth's identity towards an aggressive counter-pressing, heavy metal, high-risk tactical philosophy.

In Iraola’s system, fullbacks are vital in terms of closing down the opposition's winger and forcing the team to go long, as well as winning the ball back in dangerous areas and launching into transitions. Fran García flourished in this role at Rayo Vallecano, prompting Real Madrid to buy him back for €5 million, and Kerkez has the attributes to excel in this position and offer a more attack-minded profile to Lloyd Kelly.

According to FBRef, Kerkez averages 0.31 tackles in the attacking third placing him in the 83 percentile against other fullbacks. He also averages 2.35 touches in the penalty box ranking in the 91st percentile. These statistics showcase the advanced positions up the pitch Kerkez likes to fill. Kerkez is able to slot into Iraola’s system seamlessly, his attacking qualities are exactly what Iraola is looking for to help his system flourish at Dean Court.