Report: Premier League rivals plot £35m move for Liverpool goalkeeper | OneFootball

Kelleher’s Future: A Fork in the Road for Liverpool and the Player

Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher finds himself at a career crossroads. The Republic of Ireland international has seized his chance during Alisson Becker’s injury absence, earning plaudits for his composed performances between the posts. With four clean sheets in eight appearances this season, Kelleher has helped Arne Slot’s Liverpool to six wins and a draw since October 5. Yet, his growing reputation may ultimately lead to an Anfield exit.

Kelleher’s Stellar Form

Kelleher’s ability has never been in doubt. Calm under pressure and an excellent shot-stopper, the 25-year-old has proven himself capable of standing tall on big occasions. However, his future at Liverpool appears uncertain, with Alisson’s return inevitable and Giorgi Mamardashvili waiting in the wings after his loan spell at Valencia ends.

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Kelleher, speaking openly about his ambitions, made his intentions clear last summer: “I was clear that I wanted to play first-team football, whether that was here or elsewhere. I wanted to be a No.1.” Nottingham Forest came close to meeting Liverpool’s valuation of £35 million, but a deal never materialised.

Now, Chelsea have reportedly entered the race. With Robert Sánchez failing to inspire confidence and a bloated roster of goalkeepers, Chelsea see Kelleher as a viable upgrade, suggest reports from The Mirror. The reported £35 million bid could force Liverpool’s hand, although they may be reluctant to sell to a direct Premier League rival.

Slot’s Stance and Kelleher’s Predicament

Manager Arne Slot has made it clear that Alisson will reclaim his starting spot once fit. For Kelleher, that signals a return to the shadows unless he seeks opportunities elsewhere. While Liverpool are unlikely to rush into selling a dependable backup, the potential of Kelleher becoming third choice next season adds complexity.

Kelleher has shown great loyalty to Liverpool, a club he joined as a teenager in 2015. Yet, his recent remarks highlight his hunger for regular game time: “My intention is to do as well as I can and show my ability… maybe give the manager something to think about.”

With Napoli and Juventus also interested, Kelleher appears to have options abroad. However, reports suggest he prefers to remain in the Premier League.

Liverpool’s Dilemma

Selling Kelleher would leave Liverpool in a bind. The importance of a reliable backup goalkeeper cannot be overstated, as Alisson’s recent injury demonstrates. However, denying Kelleher the chance to thrive as a first-choice keeper elsewhere might create unrest. Chelsea’s interest complicates matters, as selling to a rival could haunt Liverpool in future clashes.

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Liverpool fans find themselves in a conflicted position. On one hand, Kelleher’s excellent performances reinforce his value to the squad. On the other, the prospect of losing such a talented goalkeeper, particularly to Chelsea, is unsettling.

An expectant section of the fanbase might argue that £35 million represents good business for a player unlikely to be a long-term No.1 at Anfield. After all, Liverpool have Mamardashvili waiting in the wings, and the fee could be reinvested into other areas.

However, a concerned faction may view the potential sale as a short-sighted decision. Alisson’s durability isn’t guaranteed, and Kelleher has proven to be an excellent deputy. Selling him to Chelsea—an emerging force under their new management—could strengthen a rival while weakening Liverpool’s depth.

Ultimately, Kelleher’s departure seems inevitable, but Liverpool must tread carefully. Losing a player of his calibre could be a short-term gain but a long-term regret if he thrives at a rival club.