Tottenham have begun discussions with Liverpool over Andy Robertson

Tottenham Hotspur have opened talks with Liverpool in a move that could see Andy Robertson make a surprise switch within the Premier League. The 31-year-old left-back is entering the final months of his contract at Anfield and is understood to be weighing up his options as he looks to secure regular football ahead of the World Cup.

The initial approach has been made, but there is no agreement at this stage. Sources close to the situation indicate that discussions are exploratory rather than advanced, with both clubs assessing the broader implications before deciding on next steps.

For Tottenham, the appeal is obvious. Robertson brings elite-level experience, leadership and a winning mentality that is currently scarce within a young squad. For Liverpool, the dilemma centres on squad balance, succession planning and whether now is the right moment to part ways with one of the most influential players of the modern era at the club.

Andy Robertson’s contract situation sharpens the focus

Robertson is out of contract at the end of the season and publicly acknowledged last week that he remains undecided on his future. While he remains a respected figure at Anfield, his role has changed significantly during the current campaign.

The Scotland international has started just four Premier League matches this season, a stark contrast to his status as an automatic selection for much of the past seven years. His most recent appearance came as a substitute in the 1-1 draw against Burnley on 17 January, highlighting how peripheral he has become in league competition.

At 31, Robertson is conscious that time is limited. With a World Cup approaching, regular minutes are increasingly important, particularly given the physical demands of his role and the depth of competition at international level. A move that guarantees involvement could prove decisive in his thinking.

Liverpool’s evolution under Arne Slot

Since the arrival of Arne Slot, Liverpool have undergone a subtle but meaningful tactical and personnel shift. The signing of Milos Kerkez in the summer has altered the pecking order at left-back, with the Hungary international quickly establishing himself as the first-choice option.

Before the Burnley match, Slot spoke warmly about Robertson’s attitude and influence, insisting that he remained a valued member of the squad.

“Andy has been important for this club for a long time and he continues to be important in the way he trains and supports the team,” said the Liverpool head coach.

Despite that praise, the reality is that Kerkez has become the preferred option. If Robertson were to depart, Kerkez would be the only senior left-back available, unless Liverpool choose to recall Kostas Tsimikas from his loan spell at Roma or move decisively in the transfer market.

That context complicates any decision. Allowing Robertson to leave mid-season could expose a lack of depth, but retaining a player on reduced minutes who may depart for free in the summer also carries risk.

Tottenham’s left-back depth and strategic thinking

On the surface, Tottenham appear well stocked at left-back. Destiny Udogie has been Thomas Frank’s preferred choice throughout the campaign, while Djed Spence offers capable cover and tactical flexibility.

The club also completed the signing of Brazilian left-back Souza earlier this week, adding another youthful option to the squad. However, circumstances have shifted following Ben Davies sustaining a broken ankle on Sunday, an injury that has ruled the Wales international out for the remainder of the season.

With Davies sidelined, the squad has lost its most experienced defensive figure. At 32, he was the only player over the age of 30 regularly involved. The potential addition of Robertson would immediately address that imbalance, bringing leadership, know-how and a serial winner’s mindset into a young dressing room.

From Tottenham’s perspective, this is as much about experience and standards as it is about positional cover.

Experience that cannot be taught

Few defenders in modern Premier League history can match Robertson’s record. Signed from Hull City for just £8 million in 2017 during Jurgen Klopp’s reign, he has gone on to make 363 appearances for Liverpool, becoming one of the most productive full-backs the league has ever seen.

His honours list is extensive. Robertson has won nine major trophies with the club, including two Premier League titles and the Champions League. He has featured in countless high-pressure matches and played a central role in one of the most dominant periods in Liverpool’s history.

For a Tottenham side still searching for a consistent winning identity, that pedigree is invaluable. His professionalism, intensity and understanding of what it takes to compete at the top end of the game would be difficult to replicate with a younger alternative.

What Liverpool must weigh up next

From Liverpool’s viewpoint, this is a delicate balancing act. Selling Robertson to a domestic rival is not a decision taken lightly, particularly given his status among supporters and within the squad.

However, football decisions rarely stand still. With Kerkez now established and a contract expiry looming, the club must decide whether to cash in now, retain depth for the remainder of the season, or attempt to extend terms with a player who may no longer be first choice.

There is also the emotional aspect. Robertson is one of the defining figures of the Klopp era, a player whose journey from relegation battles to European glory has resonated deeply with fans. Any departure would mark the end of another chapter in Liverpool’s recent evolution.

A move that makes sense for all sides

While no outcome has been reached, the logic behind Tottenham’s interest is clear. This is a short to medium-term opportunity to add elite experience without long-term risk, while also offering Robertson the regular involvement he craves.

For Liverpool, the decision is more complex, shaped by squad planning, financial considerations and respect for a player who has given everything to the club. Talks are at an early stage, but the coming weeks could prove decisive.

One thing is certain. If Andy Robertson does leave Anfield, it will not be quietly, and his next move will say as much about his ambition as it does about the changing landscape at Liverpool and Tottenham alike.