Tottenham Hotspur have strengthened their squad ahead of the new campaign by securing the services of Scotland captain Andy Robertson on a free transfer following the end of his Liverpool career.
According to BBC Sport on Friday, the experienced left-back will officially become a Tottenham player on July 1 after his contract with Liverpool expires, bringing the curtain down on a successful seven-year stay at Anfield.
Robertson, 32, had already confirmed his intention to leave Liverpool this summer, paving the way for Spurs to acquire one of the Premier League’s most accomplished defenders without paying a transfer fee.
The North London club had initially pursued a move for the Scotland international during the January transfer window while Thomas Frank was still in charge.
Although both clubs reportedly reached an agreement, Liverpool later pulled out of the arrangement after being unable to bring Kostas Tsimikas back from his loan spell at Roma.
Tottenham ultimately retained their Premier League status on the final day of the season under new head coach Roberto De Zerbi, who expressed his delight at adding Robertson to his squad.
“Andy is someone I’ve admired for a number of years and he will bring outstanding technical qualities, experience, leadership and mentality to our team,” De Zerbi said.
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“He is a proven winner at the highest level over a long period and is someone who can be a big player for us, both on and off the pitch.”
Robertson arrived at Liverpool from Hull City in 2017 and established himself as a key figure during one of the club’s most successful modern eras.
He made 378 appearances for the Reds and helped the club win two Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, two League Cups and the FA Cup.
Despite leaving Anfield, Robertson remains a central figure for Scotland and is expected to captain his country at this summer’s World Cup. He currently has 92 international appearances to his name.
Tottenham sporting director Johan Lange also welcomed the arrival of the veteran defender, highlighting the qualities he believes Robertson will bring to the club.
“His quality, character and leadership have been evident throughout a career in which he has regularly competed for – and won – major honours,” Lange said.
“Andy’s professionalism and commitment will also be invaluable to the development of our squad, and he shares our ambition and determination to bring success back to the club.”
Robertson’s signing represents one of Tottenham’s first significant additions ahead of the new season as De Zerbi seeks to reinforce his team and steer the club back toward the upper reaches of the Premier League table.