Liverpool Defensive Duo Could Still Leave This Summer – Journalist | OneFootball

What Next for Liverpool’s Left-Backs?

As Liverpool prepare for their pre-season tour under Arne Slot, fresh off an historic Premier League title in his debut campaign, attention turns to the left-back situation. David Lynch, speaking to Eddie Gibbs for Anfield Index, gave valuable insight into the futures of Andy Robertson, Kostas Tsimikas and new arrival Milos Kerkez. With three players competing for one position, big decisions loom.

Uncertainty around Robertson and Tsimikas

Liverpool’s long-serving Andy Robertson, once an untouchable figure, faces an uncertain future. Lynch shared, “No one around Andy Robertson is saying that he will definitely stay even after the Atletico Madrid move doesn’t seem to be happening.” This admission will undoubtedly raise eyebrows among fans who have long seen Robertson as a cornerstone of the team.

Tsimikas, meanwhile, seemed set for the exit earlier this summer. “I would’ve said that Tsimikas looked nailed on to leave but the more you speak to people around him it looks like there’s still a chance that he could stay,” Lynch revealed.

It is a reminder of how quickly transfer plans can shift. As things stand, Liverpool may head into the new season with all three left-backs still at the club. Lynch explained, “I can easily see all three players going on the tour because at the moment you’re reliant on other clubs coming in to make a transfer happen and that’s not happening.”

Why Milos Kerkez Changes the Equation

The arrival of Milos Kerkez, a highly rated young full-back, complicates matters. Robertson and Tsimikas now face a serious challenge for their places. Slot will need to assess in pre-season whether Kerkez is ready to start or if a more experienced option remains vital.

Lynch pointed out, “There’s got to be a resolution. They’re not going to want to go into the season with three left-backs or playing Andy Robertson at centre-back.” It is clear Liverpool cannot afford to carry excess in such a specialised position, particularly with financial fair play considerations and squad balance in mind.

Photo: IMAGO

Who Will Attract Firm Offers First?

Perhaps the most telling line from Lynch was, “There’ll be interest in both players, but it’s just about who attracts firm interest first really.” This is not just about who the club wants to keep, but who brings serious bids to the table.

In truth, both players offer different profiles: Robertson with his leadership, relentless running and experience, Tsimikas with his technical ability and reliability when called upon. Yet both may sense their roles diminishing as Kerkez emerges.

Slot’s Big Call Ahead

Arne Slot now faces a pivotal decision. Does he bank on Robertson’s experience to lead the line into the Champions League campaign, or does he place his faith in youth and competition, letting Tsimikas stay as cover?

For fans, this period offers a fascinating glimpse into the transition of Liverpool’s squad. While “if I had to lean one way then it would maybe that Robertson leaves this summer but don’t rule anything out just yet,” as Lynch put it, nothing is certain.

Slot has already shown he can take bold decisions. The left-back situation will be the next test of his decisiveness and vision for Liverpool’s future.