(Photo by George Wood/Getty Images) / (Photo by Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
Leeds United are planning a sensational move for highly-rated Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.
The Ireland international, long regarded as one of the best back-up goalkeepers in the Premier League, could leave Anfield in search of regular first-team action.
Since making his Liverpool debut in 2019, Kelleher has featured 60 times for the Reds, keeping 21 clean sheets. Although he has primarily served as understudy to Brazilian superstar Alisson Becker, Kelleher has produced standout performances whenever called upon.
One of his most memorable moments came in the 2022 League Cup final, where he scored the decisive penalty in a thrilling shoot-out win against Chelsea. This season, with Alisson out through injury, Kelleher stepped into the starting role and shined once again.
His performances included a remarkable penalty save against Kylian Mbappehelping Liverpool maintain their position at the top of the Premier League and Champions League for a crucial stretch.
Despite his heroics, Liverpool manager Arne Slot has reiterated that Alisson remains the club’s undisputed first-choice goalkeeper. The Brazilian regained his place last week against Girona, pushing Kelleher back to the bench.
Adding to Kelleher’s predicament is Liverpool’s summer signing Giorgi Mamardashvili, who is seen as Alisson’s long-term successor. Reports suggest the 26-year-old Irishman is giving serious thought to his future he informed his close associates of his intention to leave next summer
Kelleher was close to leaving Anfield last summer, with Nottingham Forest expressing an interest, but Liverpool blocked the move. With another year of limited opportunities looming, it looks increasingly likely that his time on Merseyside is coming to an end.
Leeds United are interested in Caoimhin Kelleher
According to the last of TEAMtalkKelleher is attracting strong interest from Leeds United, who see him as a perfect replacement for the struggling Illan Meslier. However, they are said to only have a chance of signing him if they regain promotion to the Premier League.
The report further adds that there is no guarantee the player will want to join Leeds even if they win promotion, as he could be at risk of immediate relegation.
The report also claims that as well as Leeds, there will be top teams in the Champions League showing an interest in the Liverpool man and while the player’s decision will depend on where he gets more playing time game, obviously the Champions League teams will have the preference.
For now, Kelleher remains a Liverpool player, but his future is shrouded in uncertainty. As one of the most reliable back-up goalkeepers in Europe, he will undoubtedly be a hot commodity in the transfer market next summer.
