Liverpool has been told why it should keep hold of Andy Robertson this summer, despite the left-back’s place in Arne Slot’s side coming under threat from Milos Kerkez.
It seems to be just a matter of time before Kerkez is confirmed as the Reds’ latest signing. The 21-year-old is reported to have completed his medical and signed a contract, with just an announcement left to be made.
The Hungarian’s arrival will come as no surprise to Liverpool fans. He has been linked with a move to Anfield for some time now, and a disappointing season for Robertson made a new left-back a clear priority this summer.
While it was originally expected by many that Kerkez’s arrival would see Kostas Tsimikas depart, over recent weeks, Robertson’s departure has instead emerged as a real possibility.
The Scotland international is being eyed up Atletico Madrid, with Diego Simeone’s side said to have made him their priority as Theo Hernandez and Lucas Digne having seemingly been pushed aside.
It has even been suggested that Robertson would be keen on the move to Spain, which may take the decision out of Liverpool’s hands to some degree.
Andy Robertson
Andy Robertson has been linked with a move to Atletico Madrid (Image: Getty)
Former West Ham and Wolves first-team coach Edu Rubio though has outlined why the Reds might be wise to keep hold of Robertson, with the 31-year-old still proving to be a useful attacking outlet.
"Milos Kerkez is a fantastic and a much-needed addition to Liverpool's squad,” Rubio told BBC Sport. “He is versatile; he can play left-back, left wing-back, and even left center-back.
"He has got great potential to grow even further on; yet Andy Robertson still has better offensive stats than him. Maybe because of the context/teams etc; but his numbers show his attacking input is remarkably good.
"Kerkez's solid defensive stats and his physical aptitude can offer Arne Slot a different option down the left flank. They are both excellent full-backs, but they are both different and unique.
This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more
Fanatics Official Sports Apparel — Liverpool
"Milos' interceptions and clearances stats show he can make Liverpool even more difficult to break. Offensively, his ball progressive carries is very good; which can help his team penetrate into the opposition's half faster, aggressively, and efficiently. This can support Liverpool's offensive game too, no doubt."
Liverpool.com says: It does feel like this is going to be a decision that comes down to Robertson. If he decides he doesn’t want to become second-choice to Kerkez, then he might look to push through that move to Atletico.
It would be a shame to lose him, and even though there were clear signs of his levels dropping last season, he would still be a very useful player to have around, especially to help with the workload alongside Kerkez.
With just a year remaining on his contract, though, Liverpool might well just have to accept whatever Atletico is willing to pay and let Robertson go with its well wishes.