Jurgen Klopp eyes surprise transfer from Celtic as Liverpool look to do business
Liverpool could potentially engage in transfer activity with Celtic during the summer transfer window. It has been reported that Celtic is interested in signing Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher. Kelleher is unlikely to displace Liverpool’s current number one goalkeeper Alisson Becker and could be replaced by Sunderland goalkeeper Anthony Patterson at Anfield. Kelleher joined Liverpool’s academy from Irish club Ringmahon in 2015 and has made 32 appearances for the first team. Celtic is one of several clubs interested in signing Kelleher, with three Premier League teams also monitoring him this season. However, Liverpool is reluctant to let him go. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp previously addressed Kelleher’s future, expressing his belief that the goalkeeper will not leave unless an exceptional offer is made.
If Liverpool does require another backup goalkeeper, they may turn to Patterson, who has been linked with a move to Anfield. The 23-year-old has kept eight clean sheets in the Championship this season, with Sunderland currently in seventh place. However, there are doubts about whether Patterson is of the required standard for Liverpool. Patterson’s contract with Sunderland runs until 2028, meaning Liverpool may need to make a substantial offer to persuade the club to sell. Liverpool may also consider alternative options if Kelleher does leave.
Kelleher, who has earned 10 caps for the Republic of Ireland, has yet to decide whether he will seek a move at the end of the season. Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders praised Kelleher earlier this season, describing him as a world-class goalkeeper who can play in any Premier League team. Lijnders emphasized the importance of Kelleher receiving game time but expressed his satisfaction that the goalkeeper remains with Liverpool for now. The club hopes that Kelleher will stay for the long term.
