Kelleher Seeks Move Away from Liverpool to Prove Himself

Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has revealed his desire to leave Anfield in search of regular first-team football, amid indications that the club is shifting its focus in goalkeeping.

The Republic of Ireland international, who stepped up significantly last season with 26 appearances due to Alisson Becker's injury, expressed his frustration with Liverpool's current direction. Speaking before Ireland's Nations League fixture against Greece on Tuesday, Kelleher stated, "I've made it clear in the last few years that I want to go and be a number one and play week in, week out."

Liverpool's recent signing of Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili from Valencia for a fee that could reach £29 million has intensified speculation about Kelleher’s future. The 23-year-old Mamardashvili is expected to join Liverpool for the 2025-26 season, signaling a possible shift in the club’s goalkeeping strategy.

Kelleher noted, "The club's made that decision to get another goalkeeper and from the outside looking in, it looks like they've made a decision to go in a different direction." Despite reports suggesting Liverpool has rebuffed multiple offers for Kelleher's services this summer, he remains resolute in his ambition to be a regular starter elsewhere.

"It's been reported that Liverpool have rejected a few bids as well. My ambition is clear that I think I'm good enough and I want to go out and prove it," Kelleher added.

On the international front, Kelleher has been thrust into the limelight due to an injury to Southampton's Gavin Bazunu, earning the starting role for Ireland. Despite a commendable performance in their 2-0 defeat to England, Kelleher remained focused on the collective goal. "I had a few saves to make and was able to help the team but it's not about that, it's about the team and getting the right results for the country," he said.

As he prepares for Tuesday’s clash against Greece, Kelleher emphasized the need for a team effort over individual accolades. "Personally, I'm happy with my own performance but we need to perform as a team and it's a big game on Tuesday," he concluded.

With Kelleher's contract running down and his desire for regular first-team football unabated, Liverpool may face further pressure to make a decisive move regarding his future.