As Celtic gears up for the summer transfer window, the task of replacing Joe Hart, who retired following a triumphant Scottish Cup victory, looms large for manager Brendan Rodgers and his recruitment team.
Caoimhin Kelleher, the Republic of Ireland international and Liverpool’s backup goalkeeper, has emerged as a potential candidate to fill this crucial role at Celtic.
Kelleher, who has occasionally stepped into the first team due to Alisson Becker’s injuries, faces a pivotal moment in his career. Despite his admiration for Liverpool he recognises the challenge of becoming the first-choice goalkeeper at Anfield, admitting he may have to look elsewhere.
Speaking to The Athletic‘s James Pearce, he admitted it would be “silly” to expect to overtake Alisson as Liverpool’s starter, which may lead him “somewhere else” this summer.
“It would be great if that happened at Liverpool, but I’m not silly. 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.”
Kelleher’s situation puts Celtic in an interesting position. He was first linked to Celtic over a year ago, and although his impressive performances, particularly in Liverpool’s Carabao Cup Final victory, have most likely increased his market value beyond Celtic’s typical reach, the allure of regular first-team football and European play could be tempting for him.
But it’s the transfer fee that will be the stumbling block.
With Liverpool potentially commanding a fee of around £20 million for Kelleher, securing his services would require a significant investment from Celtic.
Nottingham Forest tabled a bid worth £15m for Caoimhin Kelleher in January, which Liverpool knocked back. [Daily Mail]
It’s thought that Celtic are looking to being in a quality goalkeeper for a cut-price this summer, so that criteria doesn’t match Kelleher.
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