Atletico Madrid have reportedly ended their interest in Lucas Digne ahead of a potential move for Liverpool star Andy Robertson. Milos Kerkez’s impending arrival at Anfield has left Robertson’s future at a crossroads.
Atletico boss Diego Simeone is determined to sign an experienced left-back this summer. Robertson has emerged as a potential target and could reportedly be available for only £5million. The Scotland international, 31, has only one year remaining on his Reds contract and could leave for free next summer. Kerkez’s expected move from Bournemouth is set to see him relinquish his long-held role as Liverpool’s first-choice left-back.
According to The Times, Simeone has ended his interest in Aston Villa’s Digne after being informed that the Frenchman would cost £10m. Like Robertson, Digne only has a year remaining on his deal but is viewed as an important part of Unai Emery’s plans.
Robertson is viewed by the La Liga club as more attainable and cheaper. He could be set to end seven years on Merseyside and a spell that has included two Premier Leagues and a Champions League title.
Liverpool are keen to recoup funds after spending a combined £146m on Florian Wirtz and Jeremie Frimpong. Kerkez is expected to cost a further £40m when the Hungary international’s switch from Bournemouth is completed.
Robertson could depart alongside Jarell Quansah, who is widely expected to join Bayer Leverkusen. In return for the Reds academy graduate, Leverkusen are set to send back around £35m of the money Liverpool paid for Wirtz and Frimpong.
Liverpool could yet continue spending and are not believed to be at any major risk of a profit and sustainability rules breach. A new centre-forward could involve further talks with Atletico, but this time for former Manchester City star Julian Alvarez.
The Argentine has been linked with a move to Anfield for some time. His future is unclear, despite scoring 29 goals across all competitions last season. Alvarez moved to the Spanish capital in a £65m deal and it has been loosely reported that a similar fee could lure him back to the Premier League.
Arne Slot is keen to continue improving his squad, motivated by Arsenal and Man City both entering the transfer market in an attempt to catch the Premier League champions.