Robertson Likely to Stay at Liverpool After Atletico Madrid Move for Ruggeri
Liverpool may no longer need to worry about replacing one of their most experienced defenders this summer, thanks to a key development in Spain.
According to Matteo Moretto via X, Atletico Madrid have reached an agreement with Atalanta to sign left-back Matteo Ruggeri in a deal worth €20 million including bonuses.
The negotiations were kept tightly under wraps, with only final details left to be completed between the clubs. Ruggeri’s medical has reportedly already been scheduled.
While that news may not seem directly related to Liverpool, it becomes far more relevant with Moretto’s follow-up. When asked by a fan if the Ruggeri signing rules out any pursuit of Andrew Robertson, he responded:
“Yes. First choice was Theo, second Robertson, third Ruggeri.”
This confirms that Robertson was high on Atletico’s list, but with Ruggeri now secured, it appears the Liverpool defender has declined the opportunity to move to La Liga.
Robertson Staying Resolves Liverpool’s Left-Back Uncertainty
The 30-year-old Scotland international has been a key part of Liverpool’s squad since joining from Hull City in 2017. Recent speculation linked him with a potential exit, especially after Liverpool signed Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez — a move seen as planning for the future in the left-back role.
If Robertson had decided to leave, it could have opened the door for Kostas Tsimikas to remain at the club. The Greek defender made 29 appearances last season but has been tipped to move on during this window.
However, with Robertson now seemingly committed to staying and competing with Kerkez, the situation at left-back is beginning to take shape. Tsimikas may now be the one to make way, as previously anticipated.
This clarity gives Liverpool’s head coach a clearer picture ahead of pre-season, especially in a position that was beginning to raise questions.
