Liverpool transfers: Kelleher gives clearest indication yet that he's leaving

Caoimhin Kelleher has given the clearest indication yet that he will be LEAVING Liverpool during the upcoming transfer window.

The 25-year-old has previously admitted that he came close to leaving Anfield last summer as he’s got a clear desire to become a first-choice goalkeeper in his own right having played second fiddle to Alisson Becker for so long. 

Although the Irish international managed over 25 appearances in Liverpool’s goal last season  - collecting another Carabao Cup title along the way - it has been suggested that he might finally bring the curtain down on his career on Merseyside this summer after five seasons at the club. 

It’s been reported that the Reds might seek a transfer fee of around £20 million for the 12-cap Irishman, who is under contract until 2026.

And in an interview with The Athletic, Kelleher acknowledged that his form against Chelsea at Wembley - as well as in the Premier League game against Manchester City - emphasised that he has the talent to become a first-choice Premier League goalkeeper. 

However, it’s unlikely to be at Liverpool where Alisson reigns supreme. 

“It [Carabao Cup] ended up being our only trophy of the season so that made it even more special and keeping a clean sheet that day was vital,” he said. 

“Playing against Man City at home was another big one for me with the rivalry between us. You’re not going to play in a more high-profile game than that in world football and I thought I did really well. 

“You think, ‘Yeah, I’m capable of doing this every week at a high level’. I got the taste for it and I want to do it all the time. My main ambition is to be a No 1.”

'I'm not silly', says Kelleher

Celtic are among the reported suitors for Kelleher with interest emerging from the Premier League in the form of Nottingham Forest. 

While the goalkeeper admits he would LOVE to become Liverpool’s No.1 someday, he knows that is not likely to happen. 

“It would be great if that happened at Liverpool, but I’m not silly,” he 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.”

'I've done my years as No.2'

It’s been all change in the goalkeeper department at Anfield this year with long-term coach John Achterberg and assistant Jack Robinson leaving. 

There are certain questions to be answered around Alisson’s future while third-choice Adrian San Miguel is also a candidate to leave. 

Kelleher states he has NOT YET trashed out a plan for the future with new sporting director Richard Hughes - along with head coach Arne Slot - but adds that sooner rather than later the picture will become clear and that he’s served enough time as a deputy. 

“There will be some discussions over the coming weeks,” he said. “The club was busy with the manager leaving and appointing a new one. With all the new staff arriving, those talks will happen.

“I’m proud of this season, I’ve really proved myself. 

“I’ve love being at Liverpool and hopefully there’s more to come there. But I feel like I’ve done my years as a No 2. The ambition now is to be a No 1. I am ready and capable.”