Caoimhin Kelleher's inevitable Liverpool exit if Mamardashvili deal is sealed

Liverpool's interest in signing Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili feels significant for so many reasons.

In a huge boost for the Reds, Anfield Watch understands the Georgia international - who caught the eye at Euro 2024 earlier in the summer - has turned down a move to fellow Premier League outfit Chelsea as he views a move to Merseyside as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity.

The hope is that a deal can be agreed swiftly, thus making Mamardashvili the first signing of the Arne Slot era, with reports claiming he would then be loaned out for the season - possibly to Bournemouth in order to gain valuable Premier League experience.

Potentially a stroke of genius on Liverpool's behalf as a succession plan for Alisson Becker would be in place.

The Brazilian is the undisputed first-choice option in between the sticks for the Reds, but he's been linked with an exit to Saudi Arabia in recent months, not to mention the recurring muscle injuries that disrupted his progress last season.

Of course it should be noted that Alisson still has three years left on his Liverpool contract. Furthermore, there has been no indication that he plans on leaving anytime soon, although the possibility of his injuries continuing to flare up may factor in the decision to target Mamardashvili.

Kelleher exit inevitable

And with Mamardashvili being primed to take over from Alisson as Liverpool's first-choice goalkeeper in the future, the writing is very much on the wall for Caoimhin Kelleher.

The Republic of Ireland international certainly benefitted from the Brazilian's absence last season as it afforded him 26 appearances - the most he's made in his career to date - and has stated the time has come for him to become a number one in his own right.

Preferably that would be at Liverpool, yet he knows that is not likely to happen.

"It would be great if that happened at Liverpool, but I'm not silly," Kelleher said. "I know that Ali has been the best goalkeeper in the world for years.

"I’ve had such an amazing time at Liverpool. It’s been a crazy journey for me and one that I’ve absolutely loved. I love the club, I love the fans and I have a great relationship with the players and the staff. Whether it’s here at Liverpool or somewhere else, I do feel the next step for me is to be a No 1."

Despite claims of Wolverhampton Wanderers, Leicester City, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest being aware of Kelleher’s availability this summer in addition to Juventus reportedly weighing up a £30m bid, no offers have been forthcoming and therefore it would appear the 25-year-old is staying put.

Yet the indication that Liverpool have Mamardashvili in mind as their future first-choice goalkeeper points towards an inevitable exit for Kelleher - whether it be this summer or next - if the club manage to reach an agreement on a £