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Andy Robertson sends defiant message to Milos Kerkez ahead of Liverpool transfer

Liverpool are closing in on the signing of Milos Kerkez, who is seen as a replacement for Andy Robertson, though the Scotland captain insists he still has what it takes to perform at the top level

MUNICH, GERMANY - JUNE 13: Andrew Robertson of Scotland speaks during a press conference ahead of their group stage match against Germany at Munich Football Arena on June 13, 2024 in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Jasmin Walter - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)

Andy Robertson has insisted he still has what it takes to perform at the top level

(Image: Jasmin Walter - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)

Andy Robertson has insisted he is not concerned by Milos Kerkez's impending arrival at Liverpool. Robertson has been a key player for the Reds ever since his arrival in 2017, winning two Premier League titles and the Champions League.

But the Scotland captain is entering the final year of his contract at Anfield. That situation comes amid increasing concerns about Robertson's ability to perform at the very top level.

The 31-year-old endured a series of tricky games during Liverpool's romp to the title. Pundits such as Gary Neville and Jamie Carragher have urged the Reds to bring in a replacement for their long-standing left-back.

Liverpool chiefs have identified Kerkez as that man, with a move for the Bournemouth star in the works. It is still expected to take some time for a deal to be agreed with the Cherries, though the signs are positive.

Despite the Hungarian's likely arrival, Robertson is refusing to be concerned about his future. Instead, the Scot has insisted he 'backs' himself to retain his place in Arne Slot's starting line-up.

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"We're not daft, it looks as if a deal could potentially be done," Robertson told BBC Scotland. "But, until that is done, I've not even given that a second thought. I back myself, I've got confidence in my own ability and that drives me forward.

"I've had eight fantastic years at Liverpool in terms of winning trophies, being a mainstay in the team, which I'm incredibly proud of. I'm not getting any younger, I can't change my age, but I still believe I've got a lot to give and that's what I focus on.

"I focus on myself - you can't focus on other people or who you're competing with. I still believe I have a hell of a lot to give for however many years I can keep going. My body feels good at the minute.

MANCHESTER, ENGLAND - MAY 20: Milos Kerkez of Bournemouth during the Premier League match between Manchester City FC and AFC Bournemouth at Etihad Stadium on May 20, 2025 in Manchester, England. (Photo by Robin Jones - AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)

Liverpool are closing in on signing Milos Kerkez(Image: Robin Jones - AFC Bournemouth/AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)

"I can't tell you how I'll feel at 33 or 34, but I can tell you, at 31, I feel excellent. I've been fit for every game, I've not missed a training session and that's not a sign of someone who is slowing down.

"I've got a year left at Liverpool, I'm looking forward to a switch off, I'm looking forward to a holiday and then I'll look forward to pre-season. What the future holds after that? I've not given it too much thought."

According to iNews, the deal for Kerkez is being dragged out by the fee. Liverpool and Bournemouth remain in talks, though they are expected to drag into next week.

While there is 'optimism' a deal will be agreed, there remain a number of issues to be resolved. The Cherries are refusing to budge on their £45million valuation of the 21-year-old.

Reds director of football Richard Hughes is directly involved in the negotiations, along with Cherries counterpart Simon Francis. Kerkez is confident a deal can be brokered, though Francis is keen to drive a hard bargain.

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