Liverpool reportedly have no intention of selling goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher in the summer transfer window, still considering him an important part of their future.
The Irishman enjoyed an excellent season for the Reds, ending up being involved far more than was initially expected, due to injury problems for Alisson.
While there was understandable concern about the world-class Brazilian being absent for a big chunk of action, Kelleher filled in superbly, starting 18 games in the Premier League and Europa League combined.
The 25-year-old was also a strong Man of the Match contender in the EFL Cup final win over Chelsea, making a string of crucial saves at Wembley.
It could be that Kelleher wants to move elsewhere this summer, however, in order to be first-choice at another club – a move to Celtic has been mooted – but a new report from The Athletic claims Liverpool don’t want him to go anywhere:
“Liverpool are not actively seeking to sell Kelleher as they value him as one of the best backup goalkeepers in the league,” a report in The Athletic read in an update on Tuesday.
“However, they are aware that the 25-year-old wants to be first choice and that will not happen at Liverpool while Alisson is around. Kelleher will have a key role in pre-season, and potentially the early weeks of the campaign, with the Brazilian away at the Copa America. It would take an offer in excess of £25m to make Liverpool consider a sale.”
Our thoughts on Liverpool wanting to keep hold of Kelleher…
Retaining Kelleher’s services is a no-brainer for Liverpool, considering the Republic of Ireland is as good a backup goalkeeper as they could wish to have.
He has shown that he can fill in effortlessly in place of Alisson, even if he is never likely to reach his teammate’s level, and he still has so many years ahead of him.
The main issue is if Kelleher wants to leave, however, and in fairness to the Irishman, it would be harsh for Liverpool to stop him from being a regular starter away from Anfield.
It remains to be seen what his decision will be, but if the Reds start the 2024/25 season with him in the squad, there are unlikely to be any complaints from new manager Arne Slot.