Frank Christian
Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has hinted at the possibility of leaving the club by 2025.
Currently, he is set for more playing time in Arne Slot’s team due to injuries affecting the starting goalkeeper, Alisson.
Over the past two seasons, Kelleher has emerged as a reliable backup for Liverpool but has not altered his position within the squad.
At 25 years old, Kelleher expressed his willingness to depart before the 2024/25 season; however, Liverpool decided to retain him given his essential role in the squad during a busy period ahead.
A potential move got hindered by practical considerations, and Slot has confirmed that Alisson will maintain his starting position after turning down an offer from Saudi Arabia.
Georgian international Giorgi Mamardashvili is joining Liverpool next summer after being loaned back to Valencia, following an agreement made in August with the Spanish club.
With Alisson’s steady performances and Slot’s plans for Mamardashvili, Kelleher’s departure appears likely, irrespective of how he performs this season.
In an interview with The Guardian, Kelleher shared, “I discussed my situation with the manager in the summer. I understand that competing with Alisson, one of the best goalkeepers globally, means I’m unlikely to change my status as a backup.” He added, “Factors like negotiations with other clubs and the club’s satisfaction with any potential transfer played a role. Moving on didn’t happen as planned during the summer, but staying with a club like Liverpool isn’t the worst situation.”
Caoimhin Kelleher: Stats, Contract, and Transfer Value
Kelleher has consistently filled in for Liverpool when called upon, previously serving as a ‘cup keeper’ under former manager Jurgen Klopp.
He notably played a key role in the EFL Cup victories in 2022 and 2024 against Chelsea, even scoring the crucial penalty during the first win. He has also established himself as the first choice for Ireland’s national team under Heimir Halgrimsson.
Four years ago today, Kelleher made his debut for Liverpool.
Here he is slotting a penalty at Wembley pic.twitter.com/Ye6hCKMIxY
— The Anfield Wrap (@TheAnfieldWrap) September 25, 2023
During the interview with The Guardian, Kelleher acknowledged that his rising transfer value might have influenced Liverpool’s reluctance to let him go during the summer, as they sought a decent return on his progress.
“I played extensively last season, and good performances lead to a rise in valuation. The club would want a fair profit,” he explained.
With a contract lasting until 2026, next summer will be Liverpool’s final opportunity to secure a transfer fee around £20 million ($25 million) for him.
Alisson’s injury is expected to keep him sidelined until the November international break, giving Kelleher a chance to start in the next seven fixtures across various competitions.
