Caoimhin Kelleher fee emerges as Liverpool fully agree Brentford transfer
Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher is closing in on his long-awaited exit from Anfield to join Brentford.
The Irishman will leave in pursuit of a starting role, with Alisson Becker’s position in goal for the Reds unlikely to be challenged.
When the Brazilian suffered an injury in September, Kelleher seized his chance and impressed in a collection of starts for Liverpool, but was relegated back to the bench upon the number one’s return.
And the 26-year-old is now set for London, with Fabrizio Romano sharing his famous “here we go”.
Kelleher to join Brentford
Despite his limited time on the pitch this season, Kelleher excited potential suitors with diving saves, quick reactions, and a calm presence on the ball.
A Champions League victory over Real Madrid at Anfield was a particular highlight for the goalkeeper, who saved from Kylian Mbappe’s penalty and kept a clean sheet on the night.
While Alisson’s irrefutable quality makes him an unenviable opponent for a goalkeeping teammate, Kelleher has certainly shown himself capable of starting over several other Premier League number ones.
And the 26-year-old looks set to have the chance to prove that, with Romano sharing that a deal is done for him to move to Brentford.
The Italian journalist reports that the Bees will pay a package fee of £18million, including add-ons.
Separately, current Brentford starter Mark Flekken will leave to join Bundesliga club Bayer Leverkusen for around £8.5m, opening the door for the number one spot.
Alisson will have a new challenger
With the departure of Kelleher confirmed, Liverpool will need to replace his presence behind Alisson.
Luckily, they already have a capable successor in waiting.
Giorgi Mamardashvili was signed last summer from Valencia, in a deal worth £29m that would see him stay with the La Liga club for the 2024/25 season.
The Georgian international is commanding and played in all but four of the club’s league matches, keeping eight clean sheets.
The 24-year-old also impressed at the 2024 Euros, making one spectacular double-save to help earn his nation an unlikely point against Czechia.
Mamardashvili’s age suggests he may be more willing to bide his time on the bench, but given Alisson’s recurring injury issues, the goalkeeper may be thrust into the spotlight sooner than imagined.
His career before Liverpool suggests that such an opportunity would be grabbed with both hands, or gloves, by the young shot-stopper.