Slot Must Now Axe £35m Liverpool Sensation Who Van Dijk Described as “World-class”
Liverpool only secured the Carabao Cup last season, but it was a fitting conclusion to Jurgen Klopp’s remarkable and unforgettable tenure as Anfield’s manager.
While rivals might have mocked as the Reds faltered toward the end of the campaign, missing out on a gripping Premier League title race and suffering defeats to Manchester United and Atalanta in the FA Cup and Europa League quarter-finals respectively, Liverpool were far from finished.
They demonstrated resilience and brilliance, rebuilding a high-class team amid injuries and setbacks. Klopp’s success was marked by numerous players stepping up, with the team showing both resolve and flair.
A standout personal triumph was goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher. In the shadow of Alisson Becker, one of the best in the world, the Irishman surpassed expectations and proved his worth.
Caoimhin Kelleher’s 23/24 Campaign in Numbers
Kelleher has been with Liverpool for many years, joining the club’s academy from Ringmahon Rangers in the summer of 2015. He made his first-team debut in September 2019, securing a 2-0 victory against MK Dons in the EFL Cup.
Now 25, Kelleher has made 47 senior appearances for Liverpool. He became an indispensable member of the team last season, stepping up as goalkeeper to cover for Alisson’s recurrent injury issues.
Kelleher participated in 26 matches overall, including eight appearances in the Europa League. He played every minute of his team’s victorious Carabao Cup campaign, securing the trophy for the second time. His performances earned high praise from captain Virgil van Dijk.
In February, the towering Dutch defender scored the last-minute winner against Chelsea to clinch the trophy and was named Man of the Match. However, van Dijk suggested that Kelleher deserved the accolade instead, stating: “He should have got it. I’m probably one of his biggest fans, I think.
“I have always said he 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.”
Despite these circumstances, new Liverpool head coach Arne Slot should consider selling the goalkeeper this summer, as there are numerous interested buyers willing to meet the high price.
Why Liverpool Must Sell Caoimhin Kelleher
According to the Daily Mail, Liverpool might ask for up to £35m for Kelleher’s sale this summer. Interest in the Republic of Ireland international is high following a stellar campaign, suggesting he could move in the coming month or two.
| Caoimhin Kelleher: Market Price vs Liverpool Teammates | |
|---|---|
| Player | Market Value |
| Caoimhin Kelleher | £35m |
| Andy Robertson | £32m |
| Ibrahima Konate | £24m |
| Virgil van Dijk | £23m |
| Joe Gomez | £18m |
| Curtis Jones | £17m |
| Player values via Football Transfers | |
Considering that Kelleher has just one year left on his contract, it may be strategic to sell him now for maximum profit. Alisson is firmly established as Liverpool’s primary goalkeeper, and reports suggest a new backup goalkeeper may be signed this summer.
Ideally, Liverpool would prefer to retain Kelleher for the long term, providing him with occasional opportunities and utilizing him prominently in cup competitions, where he has proven his abilities.
Despite earning praise from Klopp as potentially “the best no. 2 in the world,” Kelleher, currently on £10k-per-week, is a highly talented goalkeeper.
Now, the time has come for Kelleher to pursue a starting role. If Liverpool can secure a £35m transfer fee for him, it would be a beneficial outcome for a player who has contributed significantly and achieved notable success during his time at the club.
In other Liverpool news, Liverpool Ready to Hijack Manchester United’s Pursuit of Serie A Striker
