Spurs lead race for Robertson - Saturday's gossip

Tottenham Hotspur have emerged as the frontrunners to secure Liverpool and Scotland left-back Andy Robertson on a free transfer this summer, provided the north London club steer clear of relegation, according to the Athletic.

The 32-year-old defender is out of contract at Anfield at the end of the season and, with no extension agreed, Spurs have moved to the front of the queue for his signature. The deal would represent a significant coup for the club as they look to bolster their defensive options ahead of the next campaign.

Elsewhere in the Premier League, Manchester City have opened informal discussions with Sporting CP over Denmark international Morten Hjulmand. The 26-year-old defensive midfielder is also on the radar of Manchester United and Juventus, setting up a potential bidding war for his services.

Arsenal continue to canvas the market, with England winger Anthony Gordon under close scrutiny. The Gunners have compiled detailed reports on the 25-year-old’s situation at Newcastle and are weighing up a summer approach.

Chelsea, meanwhile, could sanction the sale of Argentina midfielder Enzo Fernandez if they fail to qualify for next season’s Champions League. Spanish outlet AS links the 25-year-old with a move to Real Madrid.

Atalanta’s Brazilian midfielder Ederson has turned down advances from Arsenal, Manchester United and Newcastle, preferring a switch to Atletico Madrid.

AZ Alkmaar’s 20-year-old Dutch prodigy Kees Smit is attracting widespread attention, with Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, Newcastle, Barcelona and Real Madrid all credited with interest.

Aston Villa forward Morgan Rogers, 23, is also in demand, with Manchester United, Arsenal, Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain monitoring his situation.

Tottenham’s shopping list may not end with Robertson; they are among several clubs, including Brighton, Bournemouth and Valencia, tracking Celtic’s Swedish winger Benjamin Nygren, with the Scottish champions ready to sell for around £26 million.

Across the Atlantic, FC Cincinnati have held preliminary talks over a sensational move for 34-year-old Brazil forward Neymar, who is currently with Santos.

Finally, interim Manchester United boss Michael Carrick has strengthened his case for the permanent managerial role after guiding the club to 23 points from a possible 30 since taking the reins in January.