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Liverpool club is all set to bid goodbye to their star goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher this summer with the transfer fee of £20 million. The 26-year-old Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper has reportedly made it clear to play regular first-team football. His plea to move from the club comes after Reds brought in Giorgi Mamardashvlli from Valencia. Kelleher dedicated the last 10 years of his career to the club after the exit from Ringmahon Rangers of Ireland, and has made 67 appearances for the first team. However, Kelleher is unlikely to make a quick decision about his next move, as he is expected to attract strong interest from several clubs, including West Ham United and newly promoted Leeds United, who have both shown clear interest.
Brentford are the first ones to present their interest, especially with the current first-choice keeper Mark Flekken nearing a move to Bayer Leverkusen. Internal talks have already been held in West London regarding a potential bid for Kelleher, who has just 12 months remaining on his contract at Anfield. Meanwhile, Kelleher, after Liverpool was presented with the Premier League trophy on Sunday, cleared his stance about his interest. “I think I’ve said it before as well that like, I feel like I’m a number one and I feel like I’m good enough to play week in, week out," he said to Optus Sport.
Search for high rated goalkeeper heats up with Caoimhin Kelleher leading the league
The competition to buy high rated goalkeepers is quite high. However, Kelleher is unlikely to make a swift decision, as interest in him continues to build across the Premier League. West Ham United and newly promoted Leeds United have already expressed their interest, while Bournemouth are still in the evaluation process following Kepa Arrizabalaga’s return to Chelsea after his loan. Aston Villa also seems to be a good option, depending on the future of Emiliano Martinez, who has been linked with a move to Saudi Arabia. One of the reasons multiple clubs are showing interest towards Kelleher is his calm and composed nature on the field.
For Brentford, onboarding a goalkeeper like Kelleher could be a major boost. Moreover, his ability to present his skill under pressure for Liverpool is an add-on. Kelleher’s performances during cup runs and his reliability as a deputy made him the most preferred player in the club. However, for both sides, a summer departure now seems both inevitable and well-timed.
