Newcastle United ‘Leading the Race’ to Sign £30m Liverpool Star – Report | OneFootball

Liverpool Prepare for Caoimhin Kelleher Exit as Newcastle Lead £30m Race

Liverpool appear ready to sanction the long-anticipated departure of Caoimhin Kelleher this summer, with TeamTalk reporting that a £30m valuation has been set for the talented Irish shot-stopper. Kelleher, 26, has long expressed his ambitions to be a first-choice goalkeeper – something that was never realistically possible while Alisson Becker remains at Anfield.

According to The Athletic, “Kelleher is a popular figure at Kirkby and the accomplished way he has deputised for Alisson… is regarded internally as being key to Liverpool’s success.” And rightly so. With Alisson sidelined for ten league matches due to injury and concussion, Kelleher stepped up, showing maturity, composure and quality in equal measure. In total, he made 20 appearances this season, helping Liverpool clinch a historic Premier League title under Arne Slot.

But the writing has been on the wall. With just one year left on his current deal and a clear desire to become a No.1 elsewhere, Liverpool’s hand has been forced. As James Pearce confirms, “The expectation is that back-up Caoimhin Kelleher will leave Liverpool this summer, with Mamardashvili taking his place in the squad.”

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Newcastle Lead Chase for Statement Signing

As the summer window nears, Newcastle United are emerging as the frontrunners in the race for Kelleher’s signature. According to The Chronicle, Eddie Howe views Kelleher as a “statement signing” who could replace Nick Pope and offer long-term stability between the sticks at St. James’ Park.

The Magpies aren’t alone. Chelsea, Bournemouth and Leeds have also reportedly shown interest, though it’s Newcastle who appear most determined. With European football likely to return to Tyneside next season, bolstering the squad with dependable and Premier League-proven talent will be key.

The £30m fee, which mirrors the amount Liverpool reportedly spent on Valencia’s Giorgi Mamardashvili, will be reinvested into Arne Slot’s ambitious rebuild. As TeamTalk points out, “That money… will head straight back into Arne Slot’s kitty as the Reds boss prepares for a historic summer window at Anfield.”

Future Between the Posts at Anfield Looks Secure

While Liverpool fans will be sad to see Kelleher go, the long-term strategy for the goalkeeper position seems well thought-out. Alisson, who Pearce says is “very much regarded as the world’s best in his position within Anfield,” remains contracted until 2027 and has no intentions of departing – despite interest from Saudi Arabia.

Replacing Kelleher in the pecking order is Mamardashvili, the Georgian keeper whose arrival from La Liga is a signal of Liverpool’s forward planning. He’s not expected to go out on loan – quashing earlier speculation – and will instead provide direct backup to Alisson.

It’s a reshuffle that underscores Liverpool’s commitment to maintaining elite standards, both in the starting XI and among squad players. For Kelleher, it marks the next step in a career that deserves regular football at the top level.

Legacy of a Reliable Deputy

Kelleher’s contribution to Liverpool during his time at Anfield, especially this past season, should not be underappreciated. He wasn’t just a squad player – he was a critical component during a campaign filled with highs and injury setbacks. His performances helped keep Liverpool’s title challenge on track.

Liverpool’s decision to hold on to him last summer was vindicated. But with Mamardashvili now onboard, the time is right to allow the Irishman the opportunity he has long craved.

As Pearce notes, “Kelleher… has made no secret of his desire to become a No 1 goalkeeper.” And now, with Liverpool respecting that ambition, his next chapter is about to begin.

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report marks a bittersweet moment. Caoimhin Kelleher has been nothing short of outstanding when called upon, and there’s a genuine sense of pride in seeing a player developed at Kirkby mature into a Premier League-calibre No.1.

In a season where injuries could have derailed our title hopes, Kelleher’s calm, composed presence was pivotal. He stepped up without fuss, showing class, leadership, and confidence. If we’re honest, there were moments this season where he looked every bit as assured as Alisson himself.

Selling him now is undoubtedly the right call from a business standpoint. £30m is a strong return, especially for a player with one year left on his contract. But emotionally, it stings a little. We’ve watched him grow, lift trophies, and become part of the modern Liverpool story.

Mamardashvili is a fantastic addition – no doubt. But it’s never easy seeing one of your own depart, especially after such a significant contribution. Whoever gets Kelleher is getting a top-tier keeper and, more importantly, a top-class professional. Newcastle might gain the most, but Liverpool fans will always wish him well.

We’ll remember his shootout heroics, his quiet assurance, and the fact that he was there when it mattered most. Go well, Caoimhin.