Leeds and Nottingham Forest ‘in fight to sign Tsimikas’ after Liverpool absence

Leeds United and Nottingham Forest look to have been given the green light to compete for the signing of Liverpool left-back Kostas Tsimikas.

Tsimikas has been a squad player for Liverpool since his arrival from Olympiacos in 2020, with the reliable Andy Robertson keeping the Greece international out of the team.

The 29-year-old has been further pushed down the pecking order by Liverpool’s purchase of Milos Kerkez from Bournemouth.

Arne Slot continues to bolster his ranks as the Dutchman looks to retain the Premier League title and make further progress in the Champions League.

Liverpool defender Kostas Tsimikas at Anfield.
Tsimikas is set to leave Liverpool this summer.

Tsimikas expected to depart after Community Shield absence

Tsimikas was left out of Liverpool’s squad for their Community Shield defeat by Crystal Palace, putting interested parties on alert.

Kerkez started the match, and Robertson made the bench ahead of Tsimikas, signally the need for the Greek to reignite his career elsewhere as he is clearly not part of Slot’s future plans.

Tsimikas will likely be unable to force his way back into Liverpool’s plans and has two Premier League rivals vying for his signature.

Apperances115
Goals0
Assists18
Tsimikas’ Liverpool record in all competitions.

It was exclusively revealed by Football Insider in May that Leeds wanted to complete a £15m move for Liverpool defender Tsimikas.

Football Insider also exclusively broke the news in June that Nottingham Forest were seeking a deal for Tsimikas.

Forest have edge in Tsimikas race

Nottingham Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo happy against a back drop of the City Ground
Santo is one manager wanting to sign Tsimikas. Credit: Hasan Karim, Breaking Media

Nottingham Forest would welcome the added depth to their squad with Nuno Espirito Santo’s side returning to European football next season.

Tsimikas would face competition from full-backs Ola Aina and Neco Williams, who have both recently signed new contracts at the City Ground.

Leeds have signed left-back Gabriel Gudmundsson, though Daniel Farke would like to add further Premier League experience to his squad ahead of their return to the top-flight.

Adding Tsimikas to either Leeds or Forest’s squads would be a good addition for both club’s in their respective ambitions next season.

The depth and competition for places at full-back would be positive for Santo and Farke, but the former will believe he has the edge in race in being able to offer Tsimikas Europa League football.

Tsimikas’ attacking style may suit a five at the back formation which Nuno has used on occasions, especially away from home.