Caoimhin Kelleher 'set for Liverpool exit' after what his manager said
Caoimhin Kelleher looks set for a Liverpool exit this summer.
The 26-year-old has started 10 Premier League matches under Arne Slot and has played a crucial role in the Reds' title win.
However, he is below Alisson in the pecking order when the Brazilian is fit and the arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili in the summer will likely leave him with even less playing time.
Therefore, it makes sense for both parties to agree to a departure, so that the Irishman can get regular gametime.
Ireland boss makes Kelleher Liverpool admission
Republic of Ireland manager Heimir Hallgrimsson would like to see Kelleher leave Anfield in order to secure first-team football.
In quotes reported by the Irish Examiner (30 April), he said: “I just want him to go to a club where he will play on a regular basis.
“I’m not so bothered where he goes because he showed everyone he can play at the highest level of the Champions League and Premier League."
That could be music to the ears of supporters of Leeds United, Bournemouth, Newcastle and West Ham, who the Reds stopper has been linked with ahead of the summer window.
Kelleher needs to leave Liverpool
If the Irishman is going to retain his spot as the number one for his country, he needs to leave Merseyside as soon as possible.
It is clear that he is not going to start regularly anytime soon as he is not going to overhaul Alisson and the Mamardashvili deal makes his chance even less likely.
| Stats (Premier League) | Kelleher |
| Matches | 10 |
| Clean sheets | 4 |
| Save percentage | 69.2% |
| Minutes played | 900 |
Kelleher would be a solid starter for most top-flight clubs in England, having shown his ability in 67 appearances for the Anfield club in a seven-year spell with the North West giants.
The L4 outfit will surely not block a potential departure as the Cork native has been a loyal servant for so many years and deserves more than to be a benchwarmer for the Reds.
An exit makes sense for both parties, Fenway Sports Group could use the funds raised to fund signings to improve Slot's side and consolidate their grip on the title and a potential assault on the Champions League next season.
While, the player can finally step out of the Brazilian's shadow and show the world what he can do on a regular basis, rather than having to settle for a handful of matches every season.