Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version or go back to LFC Live.net

Image Credits: Getty Images

Atletico Madrid have stepped up their pursuit of Andy Robertson this summer.

Diego Simeone’s side need cover at left-back after both Reinildo and César Azpilicueta prepare to leave the Wanda Metropolitano this summer.

Javi Galán featured in 21 La Liga matches last season but has not convinced as a long-term solution, prompting Atletico to explore established alternative.

Atlético view Robertson as a bargain given his contract situation at Anfield, with just one year remaining.

The Spanish club are not aiming to spend a lot on Robertson however, with fees of €5 million being quoted (£4.2 million).

It seems Atletico hoping to capitalize on the defender entering the last tear of his deal.

Liverpool, however, are unlikely to accept below €8–9 million, reflecting Robertson’s influence both on and off the pitch.

And it seems that could be a sticking point for Diego Simeone’s side.

That’s because the Times, as also cited in the Daily Express, have reported that Atletico Madrid have moved on from left-back target Luca Digne.

The Atletico Madrid viewed him as a cost-effective Plan B option to Robertson.

However, discussions with Villa over Digne’s transfer fee and wages proved protracted, as Villa’s valuation hovered around €10 million – significantly higher than Atletico’s opening proposals.

It then means that the Spanish giants will now have their sights firmly on Liverpool and Robertson.

This development could cause the Scot’s exit to accelerate, with Milos Kerkez expected to be made official this week.

Robertson is said to be open to a move to Madrid, recognizing the opportunity to compete for regular starts under Simeone and to remain in top-level European competition.

The 31-year-old enters the final year of his contract at Anfield, where he has been a consistent fixture since arriving from Hull City in 2017 for around £8.5 million.

Should he depart Merseyside this summer he goes down as not just one of Liverpool’s greatest ever full backs but indeed in the Premier League era.

Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone