Following Trent Alexander-Arnold (27, Real Madrid), will opposite fullback Andrew Robertson (31, Liverpool) also head to Madrid?
Spain's 'AS' reported on the 19th (Korean time) that "Atletico Madrid is showing a favorable stance toward Andrew Robertson, who is targeted for left defensive reinforcement, donning the Atletico uniform."
According to reports from major Spanish media on the 19th, Robertson is seriously considering a move to Atletico, and the club has also ascertained the player's intentions.
Robertson has established himself as one of the world's best leftbacks with his precise left-foot crosses and work rate, and he has been a key resource in ending Liverpool's long-standing struggles at left fullback. He boasts attacking prowess by reliably executing various types of crosses, penetrating passes, and long passes while coordinating with left wingers to disrupt enemy defenses.
Despite being overworked, he has maintained consistent appearances and performance without minor injuries and has significantly improved the record for assists among Premier League defenders. Defensively, he is stable in both individual and cooperative defense with his quick pace, strong determination, diligent tackling, and positioning, and he has a high tactical understanding, allowing him to play various positions.
However, his fundamental skills, dribbling, and shooting abilities are somewhat lacking, and he occasionally fails to align with the offside line, creating opportunities for conceding goals.
Since joining Liverpool in 2017, Robertson has lifted major trophies such as the UEFA Champions League, Premier League, FA Cup, and League Cup over eight seasons, marking a golden period. Now past 30, he still wishes to compete at the highest level in Europe.
In that respect, Atletico presents an attractive option. AS reported, "A top-tier team in Spain's La Liga, a regular in the Champions League, and a team centered around organization led by Coach Simeone. Robertson reportedly believes that such conditions 'perfectly match what he desires.'"
The media analyzed, "The decisive factor is the emergence of 'heir.' Liverpool has signaled a generational shift in the left defensive line by acquiring Hungarian prospect Milos Kerkes. Robertson has also acknowledged that his position will inevitably become narrower and is seeking a new path before his role in the team diminishes."
Robertson's contract with Liverpool runs until June 2026, but Atletico is expected to enter negotiations for a transfer fee to bring him in freely. However, it is said that the club does not plan to invest a substantial amount in this position due to financial circumstances.
In fact, Atletico is approaching budget management more strategically this summer. They are allocating a relatively small budget for left defensive reinforcements, including Robertson, while key investment targets are expected to be Alex Baena, Diogo Cardoso, and Cristian Romero of Tottenham.
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