Journalist Reveals Four Premier League Clubs in the Race to Sign £20m Liverpool Star | OneFootball

Caoimhin Kelleher Set to Depart Liverpool: Premier League Quartet Circle Ireland International

Caoimhin Kelleher’s time at Liverpool appears to be drawing to a close. After nearly a decade of service and 67 senior appearances, the Irish shot-stopper is finally poised to pursue the first-team football he has long craved. With four Premier League clubs reportedly interested, the 26-year-old could be on the verge of a new chapter.

According to Lewis Steele of The Daily Mail, Brentford, Leeds United, Bournemouth, and West Ham are all vying for Kelleher’s signature. The Reds, meanwhile, will not obstruct his exit if their valuation – said to be around £25 million – is met.

“Caoimhin Kelleher confirmed his desire to be a No 1 again on Sunday and Liverpool will not stand in his way if the price is right,” wrote Steele.

Kelleher’s Patience Wears Thin

Despite being one of the most competent backup goalkeepers in the league, Kelleher has found his path at Liverpool blocked by the ever-present excellence of Alisson Becker. His patience and professionalism have won admiration, but the recent arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia makes the writing on the wall even clearer.

“I’ve said it before, I feel like I’m a number one and I think I’m good enough to play week in and week out,” Kelleher said after the Reds lifted the Premier League trophy on Sunday.

“This season I was lucky enough to play a lot of games, but it’s definitely something I’m looking at.”

His words leave little ambiguity: Kelleher’s future lies away from Merseyside.

Photo: IMAGO

Brentford Lead the Race

Among the interested parties, Brentford appear to be at the front of the queue. With their current number one, Mark Flekken, reportedly heading to Bayer Leverkusen, the Bees are in the market for a capable and composed replacement. Their recent dealings with Liverpool – including the loans of Sepp van den Berg and Fabio Carvalho – could smooth the negotiation process.

“They want around £25m with Brentford, Leeds, Bournemouth and West Ham among those keen,” reported Steele.

Kelleher’s mix of Premier League experience, European pedigree, and international caps makes him an enticing proposition for clubs seeking a dependable presence between the sticks.

Liverpool’s Valuation and Timing

Liverpool are understood to be seeking a fee in the region of £20-30 million. That figure might seem modest given Kelleher’s calibre, but with just one year left on his contract, it reflects a pragmatic approach from the club.

It’s also a deal that aligns with Arne Slot’s evolving vision. The new manager, fresh off a title-winning debut season, appears to be recalibrating the squad – and that includes solidifying long-term options in goal. The acquisition of Mamardashvili all but confirms the club’s direction.

Kelleher’s Next Chapter

There’s little doubt that Kelleher deserves his opportunity. Still just 26, he is entering the peak years for a goalkeeper. Whether it’s at the Brentford Community Stadium or the London Stadium, he will bring a calm authority, ball-playing confidence, and winning mentality to his next club.

After years of patience and professionalism, few would begrudge him the chance to be the number one he believes he can be.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For many Liverpool fans, the potential departure of Caoimhin Kelleher is bittersweet. He’s been more than just a backup. He’s been a reliable presence during critical moments, none more so than his heroic performance in the 2022 EFL Cup final shootout, where he scored the winning penalty.

Supporters have watched him grow from a young hopeful into a fully-fledged international, always performing when called upon and never once complaining about playing second fiddle. That’s a rare kind of mentality – and it deserves respect.

That said, this move feels inevitable. With Alisson still in his prime and Giorgi Mamardashvili clearly being prepped as the long-term heir, Kelleher would face another few years on the bench. As fans, we want what’s best for him. He’s earned the right to start every week and to show what he can do across a full campaign.

£25 million is arguably a bargain in today’s market, and it’s a fee that should make the deal attractive for suitors. Most importantly, it’s a dignified end to a meaningful Anfield chapter. Wherever Kelleher lands, he’ll carry the club’s DNA with him – humility, resilience, and a winning edge.

We wish him nothing but success, unless he’s playing against us, of course.