Liverpool already eye Andy Robertson’s replacement: another Premier League left-back

Liverpool FC has once again turned its scouting lens toward the transfer market with a clear objective: reinforcing the left side of their defense. In a move that will surely excite American fans, the name of Antonee Robinson has surged to the top of the shortlist. The Fulham standout and USMNT star is back in the "Reds'" orbit as the club begins to map out a strategic move to bring him to Anfield in the medium term.

This isn't the first time Robinson has been linked with the Merseyside giants. The American international was one of the primary targets during the summer 2025 window. However, at that time, the board ultimately opted for Milos Kerkez, who arrived from Bournemouth to provide a more youthful alternative. That decision triggered a ripple effect through the squad, most notably resulting in Kostas Tsimikas being sent on a season-long loan to AS Roma.

The landscape at Anfield has shifted significantly as of January 2026. With Andy Robertson reportedly open to a high-profile move to Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool has been forced to reopen the debate over the future of the left-back position.

Internal discussions have centered on two paths:

The prospect of a Robinson-Kerkez duo is seen by the sporting directorate as the "ideal long-term solution," blending Robinson’s veteran Premier League experience with Kerkez’s high ceiling. For Robinson, a return to Merseyside holds a unique allure. Despite having played for Everton earlier in his career, the man nicknamed "Jedi" is said to be intrigued by the challenge of fighting for major titles under Arne Slot.

Since joining Fulham in 2020, Robinson has become a "Cottagers" legend. With a contract running through 2028, he has amassed over 200 official appearances, contributing 3 goals and an impressive 22 assists. These numbers are elite for an attack-minded fullback and align perfectly with Liverpool’s tactical requirement for defenders who can provide width and quality in the final third.

The negotiations are expected to be complex, as Fulham is looking to strengthen its own squad—potentially by looking toward Anfield. Reports suggest that Fulham has expressed interest in both Tsimikas and Harvey Elliott.

Elliott’s situation is particularly delicate. After spending the first half of the season on loan at Aston Villa, his future is a puzzle. Due to FIFA regulations regarding playing for more than two clubs in a single domestic season, Elliott cannot play for a third English club this year. This has opened the door for a potential MLS loan move to keep his match fitness high before a permanent decision is made in the summer of 2026.

While the January window remains active, the groundwork is being laid for a massive summer 2026 negotiation. If Liverpool manages to secure Robinson, they wouldn't just be signing a top-tier defender; they would be acquiring a player in his physical prime who understands the rigors of the Premier League. For El Futbolero USA readers, seeing a USMNT pillar at the heart of Anfield would mark a historic moment for American soccer.