‘85% Chance’ that Liverpool Star Leaves the Club This Summer – Journalist | OneFootball

Kostas Tsimikas Set for Summer Exit as Liverpool Eyes Defensive Refresh

With Arne Slot now firmly at the helm following a historic Premier League title win in his debut season, the Dutchman’s attention has quickly turned to shaping a squad that can defend its crown. One name catching the eye is Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, a promising left-back who looks primed for a step up. But as is often the case in elite football, one player’s arrival spells another’s departure.

According to journalist Lewis Steele, speaking via his YouTube channel, Liverpool are pushing ahead with interest in Kerkez, and as a result, there is now an “80-85%” chance that fan favourite Kostas Tsimikas will be leaving Anfield this summer.

A Cult Hero’s Likely Farewell

Tsimikas may not have been a week-in, week-out starter, but his role within the squad was significant. Since arriving from Olympiacos in 2020 under Jurgen Klopp, he has become one of the most likeable figures in recent Liverpool history.

Steele aptly referred to Tsimikas as a “cult-hero” – a sentiment widely echoed across the fanbase. From the unforgettable penalty in the FA Cup final against Chelsea in 2022 to his infectious character on social media and in training, the Greek full-back has been more than just a squad player. He embodied the spirit of togetherness that has defined Liverpool’s recent success.

While Andy Robertson has maintained his status as first-choice left-back, Tsimikas has been a loyal deputy. Yet, the writing appears to be on the wall. “He will know himself however, that his game time will once again be very limited next term if Kerkez does arrive,” the report stated.

Interest from Abroad and at Home

As the transfer window looms, Tsimikas has no shortage of suitors. Valencia, Lille, and Leeds are reportedly circling, each keen to bring his experience, energy and professionalism into their own dressing rooms.

That variety of interest is telling. At 29, Tsimikas remains at a strong physical peak, and having been part of a title-winning side and several deep European runs, his CV is impressive. What’s more, his character is a massive plus – a proven team-first professional who could lift the morale of any squad he joins.

Photo: IMAGO

Jamie Carragher weighed in with his thoughts, suggesting it might be the right time for the club to “part ways” with Tsimikas. While that statement might sting for those who’ve grown attached to the player, it reflects the cold logic that elite football often demands.

Transition Under Slot Picking Up Pace

Arne Slot’s influence is becoming increasingly visible, and targeting Kerkez is a clear sign of a long-term plan. The Hungarian is just 20 years old, fast, dynamic, and already Premier League-proven. Slot will likely want a more natural competition or succession plan to Robertson, who is 30 and has dealt with injuries in recent seasons.

This evolution in the full-back department signals a broader theme: Liverpool are looking to build a squad with youth, resilience and rotational depth to go toe-to-toe across multiple competitions once again. While that means saying goodbye to familiar faces, it also points to a continuation of the ambitious strategy that has brought the club so much recent success.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

As Liverpool supporters, it’s hard to imagine the dressing room without Kostas Tsimikas. He’s been more than just a reliable back-up; he’s been a heartbeat of the squad, the kind of player who never complains, who smiles through the grind, and who always gives 100 percent when called upon.

His penalty in the 2022 FA Cup final is etched into our memories – a high-pressure moment where he stepped up with confidence and secured silverware. That was vintage Tsimikas: cool, committed and clutch.

So, while it makes sense from a footballing and squad development perspective that Arne Slot is bringing in a younger player like Kerkez, emotionally this departure will hit hard. Players like Kostas don’t just disappear without leaving a mark – and his mark on the club, both on and off the pitch, has been profound.

We’ll wish him nothing but the best wherever he goes. He’ll always be welcome back at Anfield, and he leaves with the respect and love of the Kop. But for now, we trust in Slot’s vision and know this is just part of the cycle. If this is goodbye, then thank you, Kostas – you gave us everything.