Liverpool Star Caoimhin Kelleher Could Leave Anfield After Newcastle Defeat
Following Liverpool’s disappointing 2-1 loss to Newcastle United in the Carabao Cup final, speculation is mounting that goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher may have played his last game for the club.
Newcastle United triumphed over Liverpool in Sunday’s Carabao Cup final at Wembley, securing their first major trophy in 70 years with a 2-1 victory. This defeat compounds Liverpool’s recent Champions League exit at the hands of Paris Saint-Germain after a penalty shootout in the round of 16, adding to a week of significant setbacks for Arne Slot’s team.
Amidst the post-match fallout, rumours have emerged suggesting that Kelleher, who started the Carabao Cup final, is considering a move away from Anfield in the summer transfer window. As is typical in domestic cup competitions, Kelleher was chosen over first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker for the final. Despite his efforts, he couldn’t prevent Newcastle’s Dan Burn and Alexander Isak from scoring the goals that clinched the trophy for the Magpies.
With Liverpool also out of the FA Cup, Kelleher’s opportunities for further first-team action this season appear limited. Alisson is expected to reclaim his place as the Premier League campaign intensifies, leaving Kelleher potentially sidelined for the remaining nine league matches.
Considering his desire for regular playing time and the likelihood of a summer departure, the Carabao Cup final defeat against Newcastle could indeed mark the 26-year-old’s final appearance in a Liverpool jersey.
Bournemouth Leads the Chase for Kelleher’s Signature
If the Irish international decides to seek pastures new in the summer transfer window, Bournemouth is reportedly leading the race to secure his services. According to reports in The Sun, the Cherries are confident of completing a deal for Kelleher as they anticipate the return of Kepa Arrizabalaga to Chelsea following his loan spell.
However, Bournemouth are not the only club interested in the talented goalkeeper. Premier League rivals Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Tottenham Hotspur are also rumoured to be monitoring Kelleher’s situation. This widespread interest could spark a competitive bidding war for the Liverpool shot-stopper when the transfer window opens.
Here is a summary of clubs reportedly interested in Caoimhin Kelleher:
- Bournemouth (Favoured)
- Chelsea
- Newcastle United
- Tottenham Hotspur
It is believed that Liverpool would be willing to consider offers for Kelleher, especially with the anticipated arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili, potentially further limiting Kelleher’s first-team chances.
Explaining his decision to start Kelleher in the Carabao Cup final, Liverpool manager Arne Slot stated:
“It wasn’t difficult. It was only once when I played Alisson [in the League Cup] and that was only when he had been out injured and needed playing time to be back to his best. For all the other games, we have played the second choice. Caoimhin has always done so well so deserves to play in this one.”
Could the Newcastle defeat be Caoimhin Kelleher’s farewell to Liverpool? The summer transfer window promises to be an interesting period for the young goalkeeper.
What do you think? Should Kelleher seek a move for more game time, or stay and fight for his place at Liverpool? Share your thoughts in the comments below!