Image source: football.london
Liverpool have reportedly refused to let Andy Robertson join Tottenham Hotspur in January, even though talks between the clubs had reached an advanced stage. Spurs were said to be ready to pay about £5 million and had an agreement in principle, but Liverpool pulled back after considering the proposal. Robertson has not pushed for a move, and both Arne Slot and Virgil van Dijk have publicly signalled they want him to stay.
Liverpool halt Tottenham talks for Robertson despite £5m proposal, reports say
Liverpool have blocked a potential move that would have taken left-back Andy Robertson to Tottenham Hotspur, according to reports, despite discussions taking place between the two clubs during the January transfer window.
The Scotland international had appeared to be heading for North London, with Tottenham reportedly prepared to offer approximately £5 million for the defender as manager Thomas Frank looked to add experience to his squad. The report said negotiations progressed well, reaching an advanced stage with a deal agreed in principle, before Liverpool chose to end the talks and refuse to entertain Robertson’s departure.
Liverpool’s decision came after the club weighed up the proposal, with the report adding that Robertson himself has not pushed for a move away from Anfield. Slot underlined his desire to keep him after Liverpool’s narrow loss at Bournemouth, explaining he needed Robertson’s availability as part of managing his squad through a heavy schedule and avoiding further injuries.
Slot said he brought Robertson on at half-time because he did not think Milos Kerkez could manage another 90 minutes against “a very intense Bournemouth side.” Slot added he had already used a first-half substitution and wanted to make the change at the interval to help ensure Kerkez “stays available for the rest of the season,” stressing: “The last thing we could need right now is another injury.”
Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk also indicated he wants Robertson to remain at the club, calling him “my vice-captain” and “a very important member of our team.” Van Dijk added: “I want him to stay but whatever happens, let’s see,” as Robertson’s future remained uncertain with his contract at Anfield set to expire in the summer, when he would leave as a free agent.
