Tottenham Hotspur are on the verge of completing a high-profile free transfer for Scotland captain Andy Robertson, following his emotional departure from Liverpool. An agreement in principle is understood to be in place, with only final details to be ironed out before the 32-year-old left-back puts pen to paper at Spurs. The move would see Robertson join his third English club after spells at Hull City and Liverpool.
Robertson’s exit from Anfield marks the end of an era. The full-back made 378 appearances for Liverpool over eight trophy-laden seasons, winning two Premier League titles, a Champions League crown, and a host of domestic honors. His relentless energy, pinpoint crossing, and partnership with Trent Alexander-Arnold redefined the modern full-back role. He bowed out in Liverpool’s final match of the season against Brentford, receiving a standing ovation from the traveling support.
The defender, who joined Liverpool from Hull City for a bargain £8 million in 2017, had already announced plans to move on when his contract expired this summer, citing a desire for a fresh challenge. In a farewell video, he expressed gratitude to the club and its fans, saying he had given everything but it was time for a new chapter. That decision opened the door for Tottenham, who failed in a January bid to land him.
During the winter window, Spurs—then under the leadership of caretaker Thomas Frank—targeted Robertson as an upgrade at left-back. A deal was agreed between Liverpool and Tottenham, only for the Merseyside club to pull the plug when they were unable to recall Greek defender Kostas Tsimikas from his loan spell at Roma. That left the North London side frustrated, but they maintained a dialogue with Robertson’s camp.
Now, under new Italian manager Roberto de Zerbi, the club have acted decisively. De Zerbi, who steered Spurs to Premier League survival on the final day with a win over Everton, sees Robertson as a cornerstone of his rebuild. The Scotland international is expected to slot straight into the starting eleven, providing defensive solidity and an attacking threat down the left flank.
Robertson’s arrival addresses a longstanding weakness in Tottenham’s backline. With Ivan Perisic and Ryan Sessegnon both departing, and young Destiny Udogie still adjusting to the league, the need for a proven performer was acute. Robertson’s 92 caps for Scotland and his leadership as national team captain add authority to a dressing room that has often struggled for vocal leaders on the pitch.
The move carries broader implications for Spurs’ summer transfer strategy. Securing a player of Robertson’s calibre on a free transfer allows de Zerbi to allocate funds to other priority positions, such as a creative midfielder or a consistent striker. It signals that Tottenham are serious about challenging for European qualification next season and building a squad capable of competing on multiple fronts.
On the international stage, Robertson will captain Scotland at this summer’s World Cup, a historic moment for the nation. His transfer to Spurs is timed to maintain his sharpness ahead of the tournament, and the club will hope his World Cup form translates into a strong start in the Premier League. His leadership experience on the global stage is an intangible asset that could galvanise a Spurs side in transition.
Tactically, De Zerbi’s system demands full-backs who can build play, provide width, and press high. Robertson’s engine, technical ability, and crossing accuracy make him an ideal fit. He will also offer mentorship to Udogie, helping the Italian prospect adapt to the intensity of English football, much like he did with Kostas Tsimikas at Liverpool.
The deal has been met with cautious optimism among Tottenham supporters, who vividly recall the January collapse. However, without the obstacle of a Tsimikas recall, the club are confident an announcement is imminent. Robertson is expected to undergo a medical and finalise personal terms within days, with Spurs eager to integrate him into pre-season plans.
Robertson’s Liverpool legacy is secure, but his next chapter promises to be equally compelling. As he swaps Anfield for the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, the Scot brings a winning mentality that could transform Spurs’ fortunes. For De Zerbi, it’s a statement signing that sets the tone for a critical summer window and a new era in North London.
Based on reporting from BBC Sport.
