Liverpool braced for Andy Robertson transfer bid as Atletico Madrid consider move

Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson has emerged as a transfer target for La Liga side Atletico Madrid

Liverpool left-back Andy Robertson has emerged as a shock leading transfer target for Atletico Madrid. Robertson is expected to face a strong challenge for his starting role next season with the Reds closing on a deal to sign £45million-rated Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth.

And the Scotland international, who is approaching the final 12 months of his current contract at Anfield, is towards the top of Atletico's wanted list as the Spanish outfit look to strengthen their defensive resources this summer.

Atletico have developed a recent habit of taking seasoned full-backs from the Premier League having previously signed both Kieran Trippier and Matt Doherty from Tottenham Hotspur.

Liverpool have yet to receive an approach from Atletico but would face a difficult decision over Robertson's future should the interest be made formal, particularly if the player is receptive to the move.

The 31-year-old admitted earlier this week he was uncertain over his plans despite talks having been held with Anfield officials.

"We’ve had good discussions, me and the club, but what the future holds, I’m not sure," said Robertson. "I can’t look too far ahead, I never have done that so I’m not going to start doing that now. I know the position I’m in, I know I’ve only got a year left.

"The players that we’re linked with are all younger players and they’re all exciting players as well. So when you play for a big club like Liverpool, you expect challenges, you expect to have competition. I’ve always faced that and so has everyone in their own positions."

Robertson has been the undisputed first-choice Reds centre-back ever since breaking into the senior team several months after his arrival from Hull City in the summer of 2017, and has thus far totalled 342 appearances.

He made 45 outings in all competitions this term and started 29 times in the Premier League as he claimed a second championship winners' medal with the Reds.

Kerkez's expected imminent arrival is almost certain to prompt one of Liverpool's current senior left-backs to leave, with Kostas Tsimikas - who has been at the club for almost five years - attracting interest from clubs in England and abroad.