Tottenham have confirmed the free transfer of Scotland captain Andy Robertson, who leaves Liverpool after nine seasons. The 32-year-old full-back signs for Spurs following the World Cup and becomes Roberto De Zerbi’s first addition. Robertson arrives after Tottenham’s difficult 2025-26 campaign and is expected to offer stability on the left side.

Robertson had been linked with Spurs in January, when Milos Kerkez took the starting role at Liverpool. A move did not happen mid-season, but discussions continued once Robertson’s contract ended. The defender now commits to De Zerbi’s project and joins without a transfer fee, giving Spurs experience without extra spending.

Spurs narrowly stayed in the Premier League last season, surviving only on the final day. A 1-0 victory over Everton, secured by Joao Palhinha’s 43rd-minute goal, kept the club safe. Tottenham now target greater stability, and Robertson’s leadership is seen as central to that plan.

Defensive numbers highlight why Spurs moved for an experienced full-back. Tottenham conceded 57 league goals last season. Only Burnley, Wolves and West Ham allowed more. That record placed pressure on the back line and increased the need for proven quality and organisation in wide defensive areas.

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Robertson joined Liverpool from Hull City in 2017 for a fee of 8m. Across nine seasons, Robertson played 378 matches in all competitions. During that time, Liverpool won nine major trophies, including two Premier League titles and the 2018-19 Champions League, when Liverpool defeated Tottenham in the Madrid final.

Robertson built a reputation as one of the league’s most productive attacking defenders. Since his Premier League debut in August 2017, only Trent Alexander-Arnold, with 64, produced more assists among defenders. Robertson recorded 56 in that period, underlining the creative output Spurs hope to add on the left flank.

Robertson played a central role under both Jurgen Klopp and Arne Slot, showing consistency across different managers. At Liverpool, Robertson developed into Scotland captain and gained regular experience in major competitions. That background appeals to De Zerbi, who wants established winners to guide a Spurs squad that struggled for form.

Spurs Premier League rebuild with Andy Robertson transfer

De Zerbi described Robertson as a key figure for the squad, on and off the pitch. “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. “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 see the positive impact he will have on everyone around him.”

Spurs sporting director Johan Lange also highlighted Robertson’s career record and influence. “We are delighted to welcome Andy to the club,” said Spurs sporting director Johan Lange. “First and foremost, he is an outstanding left-backone 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 honours. 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 about Andy’s new chapter with us and look forward to having him here after the World Cup.”

Spurs are also working on other defensive targets alongside the Andy Robertson transfer. The club are keen on Brighton centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke, who rose under De Zerbi at Brighton. Reports in England suggest Brighton rejected an initial Spurs offer, with Van Hecke valued at about 70m by the Seagulls.

Robertson will join Tottenham after leading Scotland at the World Cup, giving De Zerbi added time to prepare systems. Spurs expect Robertson’s experience, creativity and mentality to strengthen their defence and dressing room, as the club attempt to move away from relegation battles and re-establish a stronger Premier League position.