Robertson Set to Leave as Free Agent: Liverpool Block Tottenham Move on Deadline Day

Tottenham's hopes of landing Andy Robertson before tonight's deadline have been extinguished, with Liverpool unwilling to part with their left-back amid defensive concerns at Anfield.

Spurs had been in discussions with the Reds over a potential deal for the Scotland captain during the January window, with a move appearing plausible a fortnight ago when Liverpool considered recalling Kostas Tsimikas from his AS Roma loan. However, those plans have since collapsed.

The stumbling block centres on Liverpool's inability to bring Tsimikas back from Italy. Roma have refused to terminate the Greek defender's loan arrangement and lack a suitable replacement themselves, leaving the Premier League side unable to cover Robertson's departure. Consequently, Arne Slot has decided against weakening his backline with the transfer deadline looming.

For Tottenham, the mathematics are straightforward but unsatisfying. Frank's side could secure Robertson on a free transfer this summer, yet the manager is keen to bolster his defensive options immediately. With Destiny Udogie, Pedro Porro, and Djed Spence all sidelined by injury, waiting six months offers little comfort.

The 31-year-old left-back is now expected to leave Merseyside as a free agent when his contract expires at the close of the season.

Liverpool have adopted a similarly protective stance regarding their midfield ranks. Inter Milan made enquiries about Curtis Jones, the 25-year-old midfielder, but the Reds have declined to negotiate. With Champions League qualification firmly in their sights and their squad stretched thin, Slot sees no merit in letting the academy graduate depart.

On the positive side for Liverpool, they have secured a deal to bring Jeremy Jacquet from Rennes, though the defender will not arrive until the summer. Attempts to land Sunderland's Lutsharel Geertruida fell through over the weekend, adding to what has been a frustrating window for recruitment at Anfield.