Andy Robertson’s future at Liverpool has become the talk of the transfer window as Atletico Madrid emerge as a serious suitor for the Scotland international left-back. After eight successful seasons at Anfield, the 31-year-old defender finds himself at a crossroads, with Liverpool preparing to strengthen their squad by signing Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez for a reported £45 million. This impending arrival has only intensified speculation that Robertson’s days as Liverpool’s first-choice left-back could be numbered.
Since joining Liverpool from Hull City in 2017 for around £8 million, Robertson has been a consistent presence on the pitch, amassing 342 appearances, scoring 11 goals, and providing 67 assists. His trophy cabinet boasts two Premier League titles, a Champions League, the FA Cup, Carabao Cup, and the Club World Cup. Over the years, he has been praised for his dynamic attacking runs down the left flank and his defensive resilience, forming a formidable partnership with Virgil van Dijk. Yet, the 2024/25 campaign saw a dip in his form, especially in the first half of the season, where he was frequently rotated with Kostas Tsimikas.
Despite this, Liverpool’s head coach Arne Slot still holds Robertson in high regard. Slot’s confidence in the veteran defender suggests Liverpool won’t let him leave without a fight. However, the club’s pursuit of the 21-year-old Hungarian left-back Kerkez signals a clear intent to rejuvenate the squad with younger talent, potentially reshaping the left-back role in the near future.
Robertson himself has been candid about his uncertain future. Speaking to Sky Sports during his AR26 Charity day, he admitted, “We have discussed [my future], of course we have. We’ve had good discussions, me and the club, but what the future holds, I’m not sure.” He emphasized his focus on family and rest ahead of the new season, stating, “My pure focus is focussing on being a dad for the next couple of weeks and enjoying that time with the kids. Then I’ll try and come back in the best shape possible for pre-season, and then we’ll see what the future holds when those decisions come.”
Atletico Madrid’s interest in Robertson has been widely reported by top transfer journalists, including Fabrizio Romano and David Ornstein. The Spanish giants have identified the Scotland skipper as their top target for the left-back position, especially after deciding not to pursue AC Milan’s Theo Hernandez. Atletico’s need for reinforcements on the left side of defense is pressing, with veterans Reinildo and Cesar Azpilicueta both out of contract this summer. Azpilicueta is expected to depart after the Club World Cup, and Reinildo’s future remains uncertain, leaving a gap that Robertson could fill.
Diego Simeone, Atletico’s long-serving manager, is said to be an admirer of Robertson’s qualities. Romano highlighted that Robertson is “appreciated internally as an ideal candidate” and that the deal won’t be straightforward given Liverpool’s high valuation of the player. However, reports from Spain suggest that Robertson is “keen on joining Atleti” and that initial talks have already begun, with Liverpool reportedly seeking a modest fee for the defender.
If Robertson’s move to Atletico materializes, it would mark a new chapter in his career, potentially allowing him to play out his final years in La Liga. It would also reunite him with former Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, who currently plays for Atletico. This transfer could set up intriguing matchups against Liverpool’s other departing star, Trent Alexander-Arnold, who has been linked with a move to Real Madrid, Atletico’s city rivals. The prospect of Robertson and Alexander-Arnold facing off in the Madrid derby adds an exciting subplot to the summer transfer saga.
Meanwhile, Liverpool’s summer spending spree continues as they prepare to bring in Kerkez, who will compete for the left-back slot. The club has already signed Jeremie Frimpong for £29.5 million to bolster the right flank and secured Florian Wirtz in a record-breaking £116.5 million deal. These moves signal Liverpool’s ambition to maintain their status at the top of English football while transitioning their squad with younger talent.
Should Robertson depart, Kostas Tsimikas is expected to remain as the backup left-back, with Liverpool also relying on academy prospects like Owen Beck, Luke Chambers, and Calum Scanlon to provide depth. The club faces a delicate balancing act between honoring the contributions of a club legend and pushing forward with a rebuild aimed at sustained success.
Robertson’s legacy at Liverpool is undeniable. He has been a vocal leader, a relentless competitor, and a fan favorite. His high standards have influenced both teammates and newcomers, contributing to the club’s winning culture. As he enters the final year of his contract, the decision he makes will resonate deeply with Liverpool supporters and could redefine the left-back landscape at Anfield for years to come.
For now, the transfer window remains open, and Robertson’s future is still unfolding. Whether he stays to fight for his place or embarks on a new adventure in Spain, one thing is clear: Andy Robertson’s impact on Liverpool and football will be remembered long after the final whistle blows.
