Jurgen Klopp may not stand alone in his departure from Liverpool at the culmination of the current season, as interest has already been piqued in at least one of the emerging talents within the Reds’ ranks.
Caoimhin Kelleher will confront a significant decision regarding his future when the summer arrives, as the Liverpool prodigy must weigh the option of either maintaining his current position or seeking alternative opportunities.
The Irish international has assumed the role of Liverpool’s goalkeeper in cup competitions this season, as well as stepping in for Alisson during the latter’s periods of injury. However, with Alisson poised to continue as the primary goalkeeper for years to come, Kelleher may conclude that departing the club in pursuit of regular first-team football is necessary.
Kelleher’s recent string of appearances has garnered commendation, notably his performance in the Carabao Cup final where an inexperienced Liverpool side triumphed over Chelsea at Wembley, largely due to Kelleher’s adept goalkeeping which thwarted the opposition for the entirety of the match.
Nevertheless, at 25 years of age, sporadic appearances in cup fixtures and the status of being the primary backup may not suffice. In light of this, Mirror Football examines potential pathways for Kelleher’s career after Tim Howard, a former Manchester United and Everton goalkeeper, suggested that this season could mark Kelleher’s departure from Anfield.
“I believe this experience will provide him with a substantial taste of top-tier football, prompting him to realize his capability to perform at this level and potentially secure a starting role elsewhere,” remarked Howard on NBC Sports. “Moreover, it might not solely be his decision, as numerous clubs could express interest in acquiring his services. He possesses exceptional talent.”
Kelleher’s participation in Sunday’s FA Cup defeat against Manchester United marked his 22nd appearance of the season, surpassing the total number of matches he had played throughout his entire career prior to the current campaign. Consequently, the impending question revolves around where he will ply his trade in the forthcoming season.
Wolves
During the summer, Wolves expressed interest in Kelleher potentially seeking a departure from Anfield. Although manager Julen Lopetegui has since left the club following reports of advocating for a transfer, uncertainties persist regarding the club’s long-term goalkeeping strategies.
Under the management of Gary O’Neil, Wolves have conceded 44 goals in 28 league matches, in contrast to 38 goals conceded across Lopetegui’s 27 matches in charge across all competitions. Despite being the primary goalkeeper, Jose Sa has only managed to secure four clean sheets in the league and allowed three goals against Championship side Coventry as Wolves exited the FA Cup during the quarter-final stage.
While Sa still has a considerable duration remaining on his contract, his performances have not consistently impressed, and he has grappled with injury concerns this season. Given that Kelleher is six years younger than Sa, he could potentially be viewed as an upgrade if O’Neil shares the same level of enthusiasm as his predecessor.
Brentford
Brentford had expressed interest in acquiring the services of Kelleher during the previous summer transfer window. However, they redirected their focus elsewhere upon realizing that Kelleher was not available for transfer. In response to the imminent departure of David Raya to Arsenal, Brentford secured the signing of Mark Flekken as his replacement. Nonetheless, Flekken, the Dutch goalkeeper, has faced criticism during the current season for his performances.
Similar to Wolves’ goalkeeper Sa, Flekken has managed to keep only four clean sheets in the Premier League this season. Notably, only one of these clean sheets was recorded in 2024, coincidentally against Wolves. Brentford’s defensive vulnerabilities have left them susceptible to relegation, as they have conceded more goals than any other team outside the relegation zone.
With David Raya likely to finalize his permanent move to Arsenal in the upcoming summer transfer window, Brentford should have the financial resources necessary to pursue a player of Kelleher’s caliber. However, their priority remains securing their position in the league standings.
Bayern Munich
Bayern Munich must begin preparations for the eventual transition into a post-Manuel Neuer era, as the veteran German goalkeeper approaches his 38th birthday this month. Despite Neuer’s recent return from a prolonged injury absence in October, where he has since led the team as captain to the quarter-finals of the Champions League, uncertainties loom regarding the club’s goalkeeper situation in the long term.
Sven Ulreich, the team’s current second-choice goalkeeper, is also advancing in age at 35. Additionally, the acquisition of Israel international Daniel Peretz during the summer was intended to provide cover, yet Peretz has only made a single appearance in a cup match this season.
Should Bayern opt to seek a younger starting goalkeeper, Kelleher emerges as a viable candidate due to his European experience. Having featured in Champions League fixtures against Ajax and Midtjylland in 2020, as well as maintaining a consistent presence in this season’s Europa League, Kelleher could offer a fresh perspective between the goalposts for the club’s future endeavors.
Celtic
With the impending retirement of Joe Hart at the conclusion of the ongoing season, Celtic Football Club is poised to seek a replacement for their primary goalkeeper position. Despite not possessing the financial resources of some of Europe’s premier leagues, the allure of participating in the prestigious Champions League on a regular basis remains a significant factor.
Celtic boasts a distinguished lineage of Irish international players, with notable figures such as Robbie Keane and Roy Keane having graced Parkhead following illustrious spells in English football. Presently, the team comprises three representatives from Ireland, with Adam Idah notably showcasing his goal-scoring prowess since his loan move from Norwich City.
Under the stewardship of Brendan Rodgers, Celtic endured a challenging Champions League campaign this season, culminating in a last-place finish in their group without registering a single clean sheet. Consequently, there is a palpable sense within the club that securing the services of a proficient goalkeeper like Kelleher could bolster their prospects for future competitions.
Liverpool
Kelleher’s decision to remain with the current team rather than seeking opportunities elsewhere remains a possibility. His performance during Alisson’s absence this term may have solidified his position, a sentiment that a potential new manager could share.
As the impending departure of Klopp looms, the identity of his successor remains uncertain. While Alisson’s status seems secure under the current leadership, a change in management could alter the perspective.
Irrespective of the managerial transition, Kelleher is anticipated to engage in discussions with Klopp’s successor to ascertain his standing ahead of the forthcoming 2024-25 season. Only then can he make a well-considered determination regarding his future trajectory, with the prospect of remaining at Anfield still under consideration.