Atletico Madrid prepare to target Aston Villa defender Lucas Digne as left-back backup option if Liverpool refuse to sell Andy Robertson

The summer transfer window is heating up, and Atletico Madrid aren’t taking any chances.

With their eyes originally set on Liverpool’s Andy Robertson, the Spanish giants are now preparing a Plan B—Aston Villa’s Lucas Digne.

It’s all part of Atletico’s push to strengthen their left-back options, especially after talks with AC Milan for Theo Hernandez hit a wall.

Robertson Remains the First Choice—but It’s Complicated

Andy Robertson is still Atletico’s preferred target, particularly with his future at Liverpool looking slightly uncertain.

With Liverpool reportedly closing in on Bournemouth’s Milos Kerkez, there’s speculation Robertson could be eased out of the starting XI.

Although Atletico haven’t made an official offer yet, they’ve been told that Robertson is open to having a conversation.

That gives them a bit of hope—but they’re keeping their options open.

Digne Emerges as a Familiar and Trusted Option

Enter Lucas Digne. The Aston Villa left-back has now been identified as a solid alternative should the Robertson deal fall through.

Digne is no stranger to LaLiga—he spent two years at Barcelona before heading to Everton, and eventually landed at Villa in January 2022.

His experience in Spanish football, combined with his ability to contribute on both ends of the pitch, makes him an attractive candidate in Diego Simeone’s eyes.

The Frenchman, now 31, is also in the final year of his contract—just like Robertson—meaning a transfer deal might be more accessible.

Robertson Speaks Out About His Future with Liverpool

While Robertson hasn’t made any public declarations about leaving, he has acknowledged the realities of age and competition.

In a recent interview, he said, “I’m not getting any younger—I can’t change my age—but I still believe I’ve got a lot to give.

We’ve had good discussions, me and the club, but what the future holds, I’m not sure.”

That sounds like a player weighing his options carefully.

Ready for the Fight, but Keeping It Real

Despite the uncertainty, Robertson made it clear he’s not backing down from a challenge.

In an interview with Sky Sports, he said he’s fully aware of the competition that comes with playing for a top club like Liverpool.

“At any big club, you always have to keep moving forward.

We’ve seen Manchester City be active early in the window, and while we’ve only signed Jeremie Frimpong so far, it sounds like more signings are coming.”

He continued by saying Liverpool have been targeting younger players, which he sees as part of the natural cycle of football at elite clubs.

Robertson Understands the Business of the Game

Robertson didn’t shy away from the business side of football either.

He acknowledged that Liverpool will always strive to improve, and that might mean tough decisions for current players.

“You expect challenges and competition at a club like this.

If we’re happy with our roles, we stay and fight. If not, there might be some departures.

That’s football—it’s how big clubs evolve.”

What’s Next for Atletico and Liverpool?

As of now, everything is still in the rumor and early negotiation phase.

Atletico Madrid are keeping both Robertson and Digne in mind, and much will depend on Liverpool’s next moves and how talks progress.

For Robertson, it seems like he’s open to staying—but he’s also realistic about where things might be heading.

And for Lucas Digne, a potential return to Spain could be on the horizon if Atletico switch targets.