Former Liverpool midfielder Danny Murphy has urged Arne Slot to pursue Newcastle United left-back Lewis Hall as the long-term successor to Andy Robertson, following reported dissatisfaction with £40m summer recruit Milos Kerkez. Speaking to talkSPORT, Murphy characterised the 21-year-old Kerkez as a “trier” who lacks the elite quality required for a side competing for Premier League and Champions League honours. Hall, who joined Newcastle permanently from Chelsea for £28m in 2024, is currently under contract at St James’ Park until 2029, and the Magpies reportedly have no intention of sanctioning a sale to a direct rival.
The Case for Lewis Hall at Anfield
Murphy’s recommendation hinges on Hall’s technical profile and defensive growth since his permanent move to the North East. “I’m a huge fan of Lewis Hall. I think he’s a wonderful, brilliant footballer,” Murphy noted, specifically highlighting the 21-year-old’s proficiency in one-on-one defensive situations. This assessment contrasts sharply with his view of Liverpool’s current options; while Bournemouth alumnus Kerkez has seen significant minutes since his £40m arrival, critics suggest he has yet to displace the ageing Robertson in terms of tactical reliability. With Robertson, now 32, entering the final stages of his top-level career, Slot requires a profile capable of balancing high-volume overlapping runs with the technical security demanded by the Dutchman’s build-up play.
Newcastle’s Strengthening Stance
Acquiring Hall would require navigating a complex relationship between the two clubs following the collapsed £75m deal for Anthony Gordon in June 2024. That move failed after Liverpool refused to include defender Jarell Quansah as part of a structured swap. Since then, Newcastle have significantly improved their leverage under Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR); Hall is secured on a long-term deal, and Gordon has since extended his stay until 2030. Having already missed out on Gordon due to valuation disagreements, Liverpool would likely face a fee well in excess of the £28m Newcastle paid Chelsea, especially given Hall’s status as a homegrown asset and a fixture in Eddie Howe’s starting eleven.
Despite the endorsement from Murphy, Liverpool are expected to monitor Kerkez's development through the remainder of the season before committing to further defensive expenditures.