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Liverpool are unlikely to sign two new left-backs this summer should Andy Robertson leave for Atletico Madrid, Rousing The Kop understands.
The Reds have long been expected to make a change on the left side of their defence this summer, after a perceived decline in Robertson‘s form.
Milos Kerkez is on the verge of joining, and RTK understands the Hungarian’s move from Bournemouth is likely to be confirmed early next week.
Kerkez had been expected to arrive as competition for long-term first choice Robertson, with Kostas Tsimikas initially slated to move on.
However, Atletico Madrid have emerged as a genuine contender to sign the Scotland captain, with Robertson currently mulling over a move to La Liga.
Sources in Spain have informed RTK that there is a feeling Robertson is keen on the move, and that he is likely to do so as things stand.
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While Robertson is not certain to leave, RTK understands that Liverpool will not stand in his way should he inform them of a desire to try something new.
If the 31-year-old signals a wish to leave Anfield, things will then accelerate ahead of a move to Spain.
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An agreement will still need to be reached between Liverpool and Atletico, although an asking price has been described as likely to be ‘nominal’.
There is currently no suggestion of Robertson pushing to leave the Reds on a free transfer.
Should Robertson depart, RTK understands Liverpool will rethink their stance on Tsimikas.
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The Greek has been attracting interest from the Premier League, and Liverpool have previously been willing to let him leave.
However, if Robertson is sold, Tsimikas is likely to be off the market.
The Reds are understood to be happy with the 29-year-old, who has a contract until 2027.
As things stand, it is seen as unlikely that Liverpool will part company with their two existing left-backs.
In the unlikely event Liverpool do accept offers for both Robertson and Tsimikas, they do have another left-back at the club in 22-year-old Owen Beck.
However, it is understood that although Liverpool have been impressed by Beck’s most recent loan spell with Blackburn Rovers, Arne Slot does not currently see the Welshman as an option for the first-team.
It is seen as more probable that Beck departs for another loan spell in 2025/26.
In terms of market opportunities, Jorrel Hato has been heavily linked with Liverpool and RTK understands the Reds have done extensive work on the Ajax defender.
But with Liverpool prioritising Kerkez, Arsenal are seen as a more likely destination for Hato this summer.
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