Liverpool Expected to Part Ways with Defender Before Transfer Deadline | OneFootball

Kostas Tsimikas Faces Liverpool Exit as Deadline Looms

Future clouded by competition for places

The story of Kostas Tsimikas at Liverpool looks set to reach its conclusion before the transfer window closes. Signed from Olympiacos in 2020, the left-back has served faithfully in the shadow of Andy Robertson, but his role has been reduced even further with the arrival of Milos Kerkez.

The Athletic’s Transfer DealSheet provided the latest insight into his situation, with James Pearce writing that the defender is “expected to leave” Liverpool before the end of the transfer window on 1 September. That update adds weight to earlier reports from Fabrizio Romano, who indicated that an exit is likely this month.

Tsimikas was omitted from both the Community Shield and Liverpool’s Premier League opener against Bournemouth. Those decisions speak volumes about his place in Arne Slot’s thinking, with the 29-year-old now effectively third choice for his position.

Photo IMAGO

European ambitions guiding decision

According to The Athletic, the Greece international wants to join a club playing in European competition and is more likely to secure a move abroad than stay in the Premier League, despite interest from England’s top flight. For a player at 29, the desire to seize what could be one final chance at competing on a continental stage is understandable.

Financial logic for Liverpool

Liverpool paid just under £12 million to secure Tsimikas five years ago. In that time, he has accumulated 115 appearances, won the Premier League, FA Cup and Carabao Cup, and provided the depth necessary for Robertson to be rested in key periods.

James Pearce added in Transfer DealSheet that Liverpool should feel entitled to “reap a decent fee” if they sell him. Given the market, a valuation of around £20 million feels realistic, particularly after the £25 million sale of Ben Doak to Bournemouth. Such a figure would represent sound business for Fenway Sports Group, especially in a summer where squad adjustments have been significant.

Photo: IMAGO

Legacy of a dependable deputy

Tsimikas will leave Anfield remembered as more than a squad player. He delivered critical moments, including penalty heroics in the 2022 FA Cup final shootout, and won the respect of team-mates and supporters alike. The “Greek Scouser” may not have displaced Robertson, but he became part of Liverpool folklore in his own right.

If this is to be his farewell, it will be one of appreciation. His contributions, though sometimes from the periphery, helped Liverpool lift trophies and maintain competitiveness. The fondness with which he will be welcomed back to Anfield in future years is assured.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool supporters, the likely departure of Kostas Tsimikas is bittersweet. On the one hand, it makes perfect sense. With Robertson still a force, and Milos Kerkez already showing promise, opportunities for the Greek international were always going to be scarce. At 29, he has every right to seek regular football, especially at a club competing in Europe.

Yet this move also tugs at emotions. Fans will not forget the night at Wembley when he scored the decisive penalty to win the FA Cup, a moment that etched him into Anfield history. His energy, humour, and wholehearted approach endeared him to the Kop. He never complained about his role and embraced the tag of “Greek Scouser” with genuine pride.

From a business perspective, banking around £20 million for a player bought at less than £12 million makes complete sense. That reinvestment can fuel further moves as Arne Slot shapes his squad. Still, there is an underlying gratitude from supporters. Tsimikas gave everything when called upon, and while his time may be up, he leaves with nothing but respect.