Andy Robertson’s summer could have taken a very different turn. For weeks, the Scotland international was linked with a move to Atletico Madrid.
A switch to La Liga looked possible, even likely. But now, as Fabrizio Romano has revealed, the deal never crossed the finish line — and the reason is straight from the club’s playbook.
“There was a possibility, a real possibility, for him to go to Atletico Madrid,” Romano said (via CaughtOffside). “But then Liverpool didn’t want the player to leave on a free transfer.”
That stance from the Reds was clear — no freebies, even for a player who’s given them eight solid years.
Atletico’s interest cooled once it became clear that Liverpool weren’t going to wave him off without a transfer fee. Instead, they shifted focus and sealed a deal for Atalanta’s Matteo Ruggeri.
Romano also confirmed that Robertson himself didn’t push to leave: “He never gave any final green light to Atletico, to respect Liverpool, and make his decision on the future very soon.”
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What’s next for Andy Robertson?
So, where does the Liverpool left-back go from here?
At 31, Andy Robertson isn’t quite ready for the retirement home, and he still has plenty left in his legs — and lungs.
But with the arrival of Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth, it’s clear that Liverpool are planning ahead. The Hungarian is young, hungry, and unlikely to sit on the bench forever.
Manager Arne Slot is a big fan of Robertson’s leadership and work ethic. Still, the club won’t want to block Kerkez’s development either. That means a decision is needed — fast.
More clubs are now circling, according to Romano. But Robertson will have to decide if he wants to fight for his spot at Anfield or try a new adventure elsewhere.
Either way, the clock is ticking with pre-season just days away.
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