Liverpool and Spurs clash over Atletico Madrid left‑back as Simeone shuts door

Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur are both circling Atletico Madrid left‑back Matteo Ruggeri, but Diego Simeone has firmly blocked any departure, leaving the 22‑year‑old’s future at the Spanish club unchanged. The club paid over £20 million for him last summer and has repeatedly rebuffed approaches, left‑sided player has been knocked back, including enquiries from Liverpool and Tottenham. The report describes the situation as straightforward, underscoring the club’s firm stance.

Atletico Madrid paid more than £20 million for Ruggeri a year ago, and Diego Simeone wants to keep him for at least another campaign. The arrival of Alejandro Grimaldo has added competition on the left, yet the Spanish side appears comfortable retaining both players.

Interest has also come from Italy. Fiorentina made a genuine attempt, while AC Milan and Juventus asked for information, and Inter explored a move that would depend on Carlos Augusto’s departure – a transfer that has not materialised.

Liverpool have monitored Ruggeri’s development for a couple of years and even made an enquiry after the 2024 Europa League final, attracted by his left‑footedness, tactical maturity and ability to provide width. Tottenham, under De Zerbi, also assessed him, but likewise found no willingness to proceed.

From Liverpool’s perspective, tracking options over multiple windows is logical; they gather data, revisit names and test the market temperature. Whether they push harder or turn to alternatives will hinge on the need for a left‑back under new head coach Andoni Iraola.

Atletico Madrid have made their position clear, and until Simeone changes his view Matteo Ruggeri remains in Spain.