Despite having one of the best left-backs in the world in Andy Robertson, Liverpool was not afraid to add more fullback talent through the transfer market. After completing his medical, Greek left-back Konstantinos "Kostas" Tsimikas was announced as Liverpool's newest signing Monday afternoon.
Welcome to Liverpool, Kostas Tsimikas!
— Liverpool FC (Premier League Champions) (@LFC) August 10, 2020
The 24-year-old joins from Greek champion Olympiacos for a fee of $14.3 million.
"I’m very happy, I’m very proud to be here," Tsimikas said, "For me, [it’s] the biggest club in the world. It’s an honor to be here and I will give my best."
The Greek left-back made 46 total appearances for Olympiacos this year, including 16 in European competitions. He has also made three international appearances for Greece.
Tsimikas is an adept tackler that provides plenty of pace on the wing. He contributes offensively but is also a defensive workhorse, much in the same fashion as Andy Robertson.
*senses a coming storm*
*leans down to touch the Earth*Kostas Tsimikas? pic.twitter.com/oUiagdnG85
— StatsBomb (@StatsBomb) August 10, 2020
The substitute left-back position has been an area of concern for manager Jurgen Klopp. Both Joe Gomez and James Milner provided cover for starter Andy Robertson this season, but neither are a left-back by trade. Tsimikas finally provides Klopp a true left-footed fullback that can seamlessly rotate into the squad when necessary. His Champions League and international experience cannot be underestimated either.
Liverpool had previously sought young Norwich City fullback Jamal Lewis, but the Reds' bid of $13 million did not meet the $26 million valuation Norwich set for the Northern Irish international, causing the Liverpool to make a move for Tsimikas.
