Andy Robertson joins Tottenham on a free transfer after Liverpool exit

Andy Robertson joined Tottenham on a free transfer after his departure from Liverpool. The 32-year-old Scotland captain had been close to moving to Spurs in January after falling behind Milos Kerkez in the pecking order under former Reds manager Arne Slot, but he sealed a move to the Lilywhites following the expiry of his contract at Anfield.

As the first signing of manager Roberto De Zerbi ahead of an expected summer rebuild, De Zerbi remarked: "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. 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. I can't wait to start working with him and seeing the positive impact he will have on everyone around him."

Robertson’s immediate focus will be on captaining Scotland at this summer’s World Cup, but he will bring much-needed leadership at Tottenham once he officially joins a squad set for an overhaul after just escaping a humiliating relegation last term. "I’m in America just now preparing for the World Cup, but I just wanted to send you a quick message to say I cannot wait to play for you guys," Robertson said in a short video message from Scotland’s World Cup camp. "I cannot wait to meet you guys, I cannot wait to play in the stadium for the first time in front of you and I’m already looking forward next season."

Robertson became one of the world’s best left-backs after his bargain £8m move from Hull City in 2017, collecting two Premier League winners’ medals while also lifting the Champions League. He made 378 appearances for the Reds but was limited to just 11 Premier League starts last term. He had long been admired at Tottenham, with a winter move only collapsing after Liverpool failed to recall Kostas Tsimikas from Roma to provide cover.

However, with Robertson becoming a free agent, Spurs secured his services with the defender officially joining the club on 1 July. Sporting director Johan Lange expressed: "We are delighted to welcome Andy to the club. First and foremost, he is an outstanding left-back - one of the best of all time in the Premier League, and someone who will improve our squad. In addition, his quality, character and leadership have been evident throughout a career in which he has regularly competed for - and won - major honors. 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. We are excited for Andy's new chapter with us and look forward to having him here after the World Cup."