Andy Robertson's Liverpool exit may depend on Mohamed Salah's 'best mate'

Andy Robertson's potential transfer from Liverpool to Tottenham faces complications, as the deal depends on Mohamed Salah's "best mate" returning from a loan spell

Andy Robertson and Mohamed Salah are Liverpool teammates(Image: Getty Images)

Liverpool's left-back Andy Robertson has been strongly linked with a transfer to Premier League rival Tottenham.

However, the plot thickens due to a Liverpool player currently out on loan. Ever since Arne Slot and his team secured Milos Kerkez on a long-term contract, Robertson's tenure at the club seemed increasingly uncertain.

A loyal servant since 2017, Robertson has been a crucial part of the Anfield setup, enjoying considerable success during his time there. However, at the age of 31, it appears that a new challenge is on the horizon. Last week, rumors surfaced suggesting that Robertson was set for a move to Tottenham - but there's a hitch.

Naturally, when considering selling a player as influential and vital as Robertson - despite his reduced playing time this season - it's essential for the club to secure a suitable replacement. Liverpool already has one in Kostas Tsimikas, Mohamed Salah's "best mate," who is currently on loan at Roma.

Ideally, it would be a straightforward matter of recalling the Greek star to fill Robertson's shoes. However, as reported by The Athletic, Roma is only willing to let Tsimikas return to Liverpool if the Italian club can find an appropriate replacement.

So, essentially, Tsimikas finds himself at the crux of three potential deals. First, Roma signs a new left-back. Second, Tsimikas' loan is terminated, and he returns to Liverpool. Third, Robertson signs for Spurs. Sounds simple, doesn't it?

Kostas Tsimikas has been playing in Serie A this season(Image: Getty Images)

The Italian club is in no rush to secure a replacement and is determined to bring in a quality player, meaning the Robertson deal depends on Roma finding a new left-back within the next few days, which appears highly improbable at this stage.

Robertson is keen for more playing time ahead of the World Cup, but despite this, he is not forcing the issue. The Scottish defender still features fairly regularly for Liverpool, though the starting berth currently belongs to Kerkez, with Robertson having started just four league matches this season.

Following the defeat to Bournemouth, Reds captain Virgil van Dijk made clear his desire for Robertson to remain. "He's my vice-captain," said Van Dijk.

"Robbo is a very important member of our team and I want him to stay but whatever happens, let's see."

At present, it is anticipated that Tsimikas will remain at Roma until his loan deal concludes at the end of the season. This suggests that Robertson will probably be staying at Anfield for the time being.

Spurs supporters had reason for optimism when Roma made an approach for Wolves left-back David Moller Wolfe, but the Premier League side turned it down.

Beyond being a reliable back-up left-back, Tsimikas is renowned at Liverpool for his close bond with Salah. The Greek defender joined the Reds in 2020 and quickly developed a strong friendship with the Egyptian King, discussing their connection in 2021.

"He is one of my best mates here," said Tsimikas. "He was there for me to help me. He's a very big person, fantastic. One of the best people I have ever met in my life. We spend a lot of time at the training ground together."