It arrived like a bolt from the blue, but there is logic once you dig beneath the surface.

Spurs have been open to signing a left-back all season, and the move to bring in teenage prospect Souza from Santos did not quite feel like the answer to their immediate problems.

Souza has a high ceiling but is very much a signing for the future. Tottenham have been keen to add someone who can make an impact right now.

That thinking applies across the squad as they search for the right blend of experience and quality to lift them to a new level.

Robertson, 31, had initially been discussed as a potential target for the end of the season, when he is set to become a free agent, but his situation became more immediate recently.

The arrival of John Heitinga as first-team assistant coach has only strengthened that possibility.

Heitinga worked with Robertson at Liverpool and the pair share a strong relationship.

There is a feeling that bringing in Robertson would not only improve the overall quality of the squad but also add an experienced leader capable of guiding the team through crucial moments.

Internally, while there is little doubt about the technical quality available, there have been concerns around mentality. Sources indicate that Robertson’s mindset and professionalism would be a significant asset in that regard.

It is similar to the way they viewed the signing of former Chelsea player Conor Gallagher.

Robertson has slipped behind summer signing Milos Kerkez in the pecking order at Anfield and while his departure would leave Liverpool light in terms of natural cover, they do retain an option to recall Kostas Tsimikas from a loan spell at Roma.

Robertson is set to captain Scotland at the upcoming World Cup and his situation - particularly in terms of minutes and role - will be important in the build-up to the tournament.

He has made just four Premier League starts so far this season, and a move to Tottenham would likely offer an increase in playing time.

We understand Spurs had been considering adding a left-back following recruitment meetings at the beginning of December.

Destiny Udogie, Djed Spence, Archie Gray, Micky van de Ven and Ben Davies have all been used in the position this season, but injuries have disrupted consistency.

Tottenham confirmed the arrival of 19-year-old left-back Souza from Santos on Thursday, though he will need time to adapt to life in England and is mainly expected to make a greater impact next season and beyond.

Interestingly, Robertson is not the only Liverpool player to hand hit Tottenham’s radar for 2026. The club have also been admirers of midfielder Curtis Jones and attacker Harvey Elliott.

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