Liverpool are prepared to let Caoimhin Kelleher pursue a starting goalkeeper role elsewhere this summer, and the young goalkeeper has attracted attention from two European champions.
Despite Alisson Becker’s injury setbacks, Kelleher has surpassed the Brazilian in appearances for Liverpool this season. Alisson returned from injury in the recent match against Crystal Palace, marking his 25th appearance of the season, while Kelleher has played 26 times.
The Republic of Ireland international has been outstanding for Liverpool this season, playing a crucial role in the team’s success. Kelleher’s performances have been so impressive that Liverpool’s season might have faced difficulties without him.
Virgil van Dijk, Liverpool’s captain, went as far as labeling Kelleher as ‘world class’, highlighting the young goalkeeper’s exceptional talent. Jurgen Klopp, Liverpool’s manager, has also showered Kelleher with praise for his remarkable displays.
“We have the best goalkeeper in the world, and we have the best number two in the world,” declared Klopp earlier in 2023.
Van Dijk said: “I have always said [Kelleher] is world class and he stepped up today, again. It’s good to see.
“He’s a good boy, good goalkeeper and that’s what we need at a club like Liverpool.”
Kelleher’s skills warrant a starting position in a Premier League team, yet with Alisson firmly established at Anfield, he might not have the opportunity to showcase his abilities there.
Kelleher’s Ambitions Won’t Be Stifled by Liverpool
Now at 25 years old, Kelleher finds himself at a pivotal moment in his career. As he approaches his prime, he may sense that the time has come to explore new opportunities and potentially follow in Klopp’s footsteps.
During the latter part of the January transfer window, Nottingham Forest made a substantial £15m offer for Kelleher. Despite this tempting proposition, Liverpool opted to reject the bid, as reported by the Daily Mail. However, indications suggest that the situation could evolve differently come summer.
According to the Daily Mail, if Kelleher expresses a desire to leave, Liverpool are unlikely to stand in his way. In such a scenario, the Reds would presumably seek suitable compensation for his departure.
Although no specific figure is mentioned, the report suggests that Kelleher’s market value has been steadily increasing, buoyed by his impressive performances throughout the year.
Celtic, the renowned Scottish club, has expressed interest in acquiring Kelleher’s services. They are on the lookout for a replacement for Joe Hart, who is set to retire at the end of the season.
However, Celtic are unlikely to afford the type of fee Kelleher would demand. According to the Mail, Nottingham Forest are being suggested as a possible destination for Kelleher.
Forest manager Nuno Espirito Santo is reportedly a major admirer of Kelleher and is expected to encourage his team to make another bid for the Irish goalkeeper. However, any significant transfer fee may depend on Forest maintaining their Premier League status.
Liverpool have reportedly become more flexible in their stance on a potential sale, especially with Kelleher demonstrating his quality as a top-class goalkeeper. Combined with Forest’s readiness to increase their offer, a transfer deal appears to be within reach.
It is crucial to emphasise that any potential move will only materialize if Kelleher expresses a desire to leave. If he is content to continue as Alisson’s backup for at least another year, then he will likely remain at Anfield.
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