Andy Robertson could become the first player in over a decade to make a switch between Atletico Madrid and Liverpool if rumors of a summer transfer come to fruition.
Javi Manquillo was the last to tread this path, arriving at Anfield on a two-year loan that was cut short after just one season. Back in those days, such transfers were more frequent, with Dani Pacheco heading to Atletico on loan before spending the rest of that season at Rayo Vallecano. Similar to Liverpool's option with Manquillo, Atletico had the chance to make Pacheco's move permanent but chose not to.
This followed an unsuccessful stint, which came a year and a half after Maxi Rodriguez moved to Liverpool on a free. He was the second consecutive Atletico captain to join the Reds, following the high-profile signings of Fernando Torres and Luis Garcia.
If Robertson does indeed head to Spain, he would be the sixth player to directly transfer between the clubs, potentially sparking a new era of transactions rather than being an isolated incident.
Atletico is believed to be eyeing Darwin Nunez this summer, as per The Athletic.
Meanwhile, Liverpool is reportedly keeping tabs on Julian Alvarez, reigniting interest from last year when the forward departed Manchester City.
Darwin Nunez celebrates with Andy Robertson after scoring a goal for Liverpool at Anfield
Darwin Nunez celebrates with Andy Robertson after scoring a goal for Liverpool at Anfield (Image: Getty Images)
Diego Simeone even mentioned Liverpool when discussing top clubs' interest in Alvarez, saying "have to want him" during an interview with Argentine newspaper La Nacion, where it was suggested that Alvarez is now a sought-after talent.
"Everything is logical; I can't imagine any other scenario," Simeone said.
"Julian is 25 years old, he's an extraordinary player, with hunger, with enthusiasm, with humility, with work, with goals, with hierarchy.
"How could everyone not want him?
"And Barcelona, PSG, Arsenal, Liverpool... the best have to want him.
"And for us, Atletico fans, it should be a source of pride that everyone wants him.
"Why? Because he's ours.
"And since he's ours, we have to take care of him. We have to help him feel happy."