Atletico Madrid Drops Interest in Liverpool’s Robertson, Nears Ruggeri Deal

Atletico Madrid have shifted their transfer focus from Liverpool's Andy Robertson to Atalanta's Matteo Ruggeri. Despite earlier reports suggesting Robertson was close to a move to Atletico and had even agreed to terms, the Spanish club has now progressed advanced talks for the 22-year-old Italian left back, favoring a younger, long-term option. Liverpool recently signed 21-year-old left back Milos Kerkez, creating a surplus of left backs at the club, which has increased speculation about the departure of either Robertson or Kostas Tsimikas. Robertson, 31, remains under contract with Liverpool and has expressed uncertainty about his future but insists he still has much to contribute. Fans and teammates, including Kerkez, have shown admiration for Robertson, indicating that his staying would be well received. The transfer developments suggest Robertson is more likely to remain at Liverpool while Atletico secures the younger Ruggeri, potentially leaving Tsimikas as the more probable candidate to leave Liverpool.