Liverpool transfers: Kelleher still intends to leave despite impressing Arne Slot

Caoimhin Kelleher played all three matches of Liverpool’s pre-season tour of the United States as first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker enjoyed extended time off after the Copa America. 

Kelleher, 25, was particularly impressive in the 3-0 win against Manchester United last weekend, shutting out the Red Devils with a sequence of fine saves and helping the Reds to a clean sheet. 

It was subsequently reported that Liverpool decision makers had decided to plan for the season ahead with Kelleher in mind as a No.2 behind Brazilian Alisson. 

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That came despite the fact that the club were earlier prepared to listen to offers of around £25 million and more for the Irish international who has two years left on his current Anfield contract. 

No buyers came forward this summer, seemingly put off by Liverpool’s valuation of the shot-stopper. Celtic were reported to be interested but moved to sign Kasper Schmeichel on a free transfer instead. 

A report in HITC claims that Premier League teams Wolverhampton Wanderers, Leicester City, Bournemouth and Nottingham Forest are all chasing goalkeepers this summer and so have an awareness of Kelleher’s availability. 

Kelleher still wants to quit Liverpool

While it was claimed that the club would plan for Kelleher remaining in situ, the HITC report suggests that the current stance has not changed the goalkeeper’s mind. 

Kelleher has legitimate ambitions of making it as a first-choice goalkeeper at another club and despite those positive pre-season signs, he STILL wants to quit this summer. 

The 14-cap Irishman made 26 appearances last season as injury sidelined Alisson for large spells but realistically is going to have to settle for a place behind the 31-year-old in the pecking order in the long term. 

HITC claims Slot is a ‘big fan’ of Kelleher following pre-season while he was described as ‘world class’ by club captain Virgil van Dijk after the Carabao Cup final victory against Chelsea.