
Anfield Index
·15 May 2025
Report: Liverpool full-back linked with Premier League move to Leeds

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·15 May 2025
Kostas Tsimikas has long been Liverpool’s dependable deputy, the ever-willing stand-in behind Andy Robertson. Since arriving from Olympiakos in 2020, the Greek international has offered flashes of quality – most notably from set-pieces and his aggressive delivery from wide areas – but has never quite threatened to unseat the Scot.
Under Arne Slot, Tsimikas found opportunities early in the campaign, as the Dutchman explored his options and navigated injuries and rotation. But as rhythm settled, so too did Liverpool’s starting XI. Robertson reclaimed his berth, and Tsimikas returned to familiar territory – warming the bench.
According to Lewis Steele of the Daily Mail, that might be about to change: “Leeds are among the sides considering a move for Liverpool’s No. 21,” with Tsimikas attracting attention from at least three Premier League clubs.
With just two years left on his deal and Liverpool exploring long-term replacements for Robertson – including Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez and Ajax’s Jorrel Hato – the writing may be on the wall.
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Promotion back to the Premier League has reenergised Leeds United, who are bracing for the departure of creative full-back Junior Firpo, heading for Real Betis. Firpo’s 10 assists and four goals in 35 games show just how crucial attacking full-backs are to Leeds’ system.
Tsimikas has shown quality in the attacking side of his game in his time at Liverpool, with quality set piece delivery and high level crossing in open play.
In a quieter subplot, Leeds are also linked with Caoimhin Kelleher, though Steele notes he is “not their main target to upgrade on Illan Meslier at this stage.” With Kelleher likely pushing for a starting role after serving as Alisson’s understudy, he could be part of a wider squad refresh at Anfield.
Liverpool’s summer, it seems, won’t just be about marquee arrivals – it will be about smart, well-timed exits too.
Tsimikas has always had cult status among Liverpool fans – the beaming smile, the no-fuss attitude, and those clutch penalty shootout moments. But the reality is that he’s been second fiddle for too long, and it’s clear now that both he and the club might benefit from a parting of ways.
Leeds United would be a good fit. He’s got the engine to thrive in a high-pressing side and his delivery could be a key weapon.
From a Liverpool perspective, it’s a sensible evolution. Robertson’s not getting younger, and bringing in a 21-year-old like Kerkez adds succession planning without completely throwing Tsimikas to the curb. This feels like FSG learning from the past – phasing players out strategically rather than letting their value depreciate.
There’ll be fond farewells if Kostas does go. But few would argue the timing isn’t right – for him to be a mainstay somewhere else and for Liverpool to prepare for the next chapter at left-back.