Liverpool star hints at surprise transfer after meeting Arne Slot for the first time

One of Liverpool’s first-team players has hinted at a surprise move away from the club after just a week of pre-season training with new manager Arne Slot.

Goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has been linked with a move away from Anfield this summer amid reports he is keen on regular first-team football, with the Irishman reduced to playing second fiddle to Alisson throughout Jurgen Klopp’s tenure . Since making his debut for the Reds in 2019, he has made 47 appearances for the club.

Most of those actually came last season, with the 25-year-old making 26 appearances in all competitions. Due to Alisson’s long-term injury, Kelleher was able to enjoy frequent game time and was named in a Premier League starting line-up on 10 occasions.

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With Alisson still on a long layoff following his recent Copa America exploits with Brazil, Kelleher managed to impress his new boss in his first week of training. However, the Irishman may still be keeping an eye open for opportunities elsewhere following his latest comments.

Speaking to Liverpool’s club website, Kelleher said: “(My targets are) really similar to last year. Obviously, we had a lot of games last season, which was really good. So I’m looking for you to do the same and keep the same level of performance.”

However, if Alisson avoids further injury then Kelleher is unlikely to get the same playing time as last season. The young goalkeeper could therefore be restricted to domestic cup competitions, but if the Reds fail to go far in either the Carabao Cup or the FA Cup, it could prove to be a difficult season for him.

Kelleher previously indicated he would meet with Slot and the club’s hierarchy this summer after reiterating his desire to become first choice. He was heavily linked with a move away from Anfield last summer before Klopp convinced him to stay, while Nottingham Forest came calling in January but were rebuffed in their attempts.

However, Liverpool will not let the back-up goalkeeper leave for a small fee this summer if they allow him to leave. The Reds would only entertain an offer worth more than $26m (£20m/€24m) for Kelleher, reports This Is Anfield, as they want to ensure they receive a fee that it reflects his significant experience and quality.

It was also revealed last week that Liverpool are rumored to be tracking Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin after the player cast doubts over his future despite an impressive campaign with the Spanish giants. Should the Reds agree a deal for the Ukrainian, it could be bad news for Kelleher and could spell the end of his Anfield career.