Kelleher gives the clearest indication yet that he is leaving

Caoimhin Kelleher has given the clearest hint yet that he will LEAVE Liverpool in the upcoming transfer window.

The 25-year-old previously admitted he came close to leaving Anfield last summer as he has a clear desire to become a first-choice goalkeeper in his own right after playing second fiddle to Alisson Becker both for a long time.

Although the Ireland international managed more than 25 appearances in goal for Liverpool last season – collecting another Carabao Cup title along the way – it has been suggested he could finally bring the curtain down on his career on Merseyside this summer after five seasons at the club .

It has been reported that the Reds could demand a transfer fee of around £20m for the 12-cap Irishman, who is under contract until 2026.

Chelsea – Liverpool EFL Cup 25.02.2024. Carabao Cup Final Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher 62 saves a shot on goal by Chelsea’s Conor Gallagher 23 during the EFL Cup match between Chelsea and Liverpool at Wembley Stadium, London, England on February 25, 2024. London Wembley Stadium Greater London England Editorial only DataCo restrictions apply See www.football-dataco.com , Copyright: xGrahamxHuntx PSI-19105-0095

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

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

“It (the Carabao Cup) ended up being our only trophy of the season so it made it even more special and it was vital to keep a clean sheet on the day,” he said.

“Playing against Man City at home was another big thing for me with the rivalry between us. You won’t play in a more important game than the one 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 want to do it all the time. My main ambition is to be number 1.”

“I’m not stupid,” Kelleher says

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

Although the goalkeeper admits he would love to become Liverpool’s No.1 one day, he knows it is not likely to happen.

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

“I know Ali has been the best goalkeeper in the world for years.

“I had a wonderful time in Liverpool. It’s been a crazy ride 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 feel the next step for me is to be No.1.”

“I did my years as number 2”

It’s been all change in the goalkeeping department at Anfield this year with the departure of long-term manager John Achterberg and assistant Jack Robinson.

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

24 January 2024 Craven Cottage, Fulham, London, England Carabao Cup Soccer Semi Final Second Leg Fulham v Liverpool Caoimhin Kelleher of Liverpool celebrates with Conor Bradley after Liverpool won 3-2 on aggregate PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxUK ActionPlus12601553 ShaunxBrooks

Kelleher says he has NOT yet hashed 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 has served enough time as deputy.

“There will be some discussions in the coming weeks,” he said. “The club has been busy with the departure of the manager and the appointment of a new one. Once the new staff arrives, those discussions will take place.

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

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