Report: Kelleher Nearing Liverpool Exit with Bournemouth Leading the Chase | OneFootball

Kelleher’s Future in Doubt as Bournemouth Lead the Race

Caoimhín Kelleher’s time at Liverpool appears to be nearing its end, with the Republic of Ireland international eager for a first-team role elsewhere, suggest reports from TalkSport. After making just 23 Premier League appearances since his debut in 2019, the 25-year-old is now seeking regular minutes, a desire that could see him leave Anfield this summer.

Liverpool’s decision to bring in Georgian shot-stopper Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia adds further uncertainty to Kelleher’s future. The club reportedly values him at around £30 million, a price that has not deterred interest from several Premier League sides.

Bournemouth’s Strong Interest in Kelleher

Bournemouth have emerged as the frontrunners to secure Kelleher’s signature. Manager Andoni Iraola is keen to reinforce his goalkeeping department with a long-term solution after Kepa Arrizabalaga’s return to Chelsea.

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With just five clean sheets in 22 league appearances this season, the Cherries are in need of an upgrade between the posts. Iraola is reportedly urging the club to move swiftly once the summer window opens.

Premier League Rivals Keeping Tabs

Kelleher’s availability has attracted attention from several other Premier League clubs. Chelsea, despite Robert Sánchez and Filip Jörgensen’s inconsistency, are not currently prioritising a new goalkeeper. Meanwhile, Tottenham, with Guglielmo Vicario and Antonín Kinsky battling for the No.1 spot, are yet to formalise any move for the Irishman.

Newcastle are also in the market for a new keeper to compete with Nick Pope and Martin Dúbravka. However, there are doubts over whether they can match Liverpool’s valuation.

Kelleher’s Liverpool Career Nearing Its End?

Kelleher was between the sticks for Liverpool’s Carabao Cup final defeat against Newcastle, a game that may well have been his last for the club. With the Reds out of the FA Cup and Champions League, and Alisson firmly established as first-choice, opportunities for Kelleher are now scarce.

A move seems inevitable, and with Bournemouth pushing hard, the coming months could see the talented keeper finally secure the first-team role he craves.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Expectant Liverpool supporters will acknowledge that Kelleher’s departure has been on the cards for a while. A fan-favourite for his heroics in penalty shootouts, particularly in cup competitions, the Irishman has proven himself as a dependable deputy. However, with Alisson undisputed as the club’s No.1, Kelleher’s frustration at his lack of game time is understandable.

The reported £30 million valuation is reasonable given his age, ability, and Premier League experience. However, the question remains whether Bournemouth—or any other suitor—will be willing to meet Liverpool’s demands. While the Cherries seem most likely to seal a deal, Newcastle’s goalkeeper situation and Tottenham’s uncertainties could yet see a late twist in the tale.

For Liverpool, losing Kelleher without securing an adequate backup could be risky. While Giorgi Mamardashvili’s arrival is highly anticipated, stepping into the Premier League’s intensity will be a major challenge for the young Georgian.

If Kelleher does leave, it will mark the end of a chapter that has seen him grow from a promising academy talent into a goalkeeper capable of starting for many Premier League clubs. The move makes sense for the player, but Liverpool fans will surely wish him well—unless, of course, he comes back to haunt them in a rival’s colours.