Kelleher exit: Liverpool gamble as brentford make move

DDM News

Brentford have entered advanced negotiations with Liverpool to secure the services of goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher ahead of the summer transfer window.

Diaspora Digital Media (DDM) can confirm that talks are progressing as Brentford prepare for life without Mark Flekken, who is reportedly on his way to Bayer Leverkusen in a deal worth around £11 million, including add-ons.

The 26-year-old Kelleher is highly rated at Anfield but has struggled for consistent first-team action due to the commanding presence of Brazilian first-choice goalkeeper Alisson Becker.

With Georgian international Giorgi Mamardashvili also expected to join Liverpool in the coming weeks, Kelleher’s path to regular football appears further blocked.

For the Republic of Ireland international, a move away from Anfield seems not only inevitable but necessary at this stage of his career.

Kelleher has served Liverpool with distinction as a second-choice keeper, stepping up during cup competitions and earning praise for his composed performances and shot-stopping ability.

Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk once described the Irishman as “world-class,” a reflection of the high regard in which he is held within the squad.

His memorable outings in the EFL Cup and FA Cup have contributed to Liverpool’s domestic trophy haul under manager Jürgen Klopp.

Despite limited game time, Kelleher has remained professional and dependable, offering Liverpool a reliable last line of defence whenever called upon.

Brentford are targeting Kelleher as their primary replacement for Flekken, who spent just one season at the West London club.

The Dutch goalkeeper is poised to join Bundesliga runners-up Bayer Leverkusen, who have been active in the transfer market since their remarkable unbeaten league campaign.

Sources close to the negotiations say the deal between Brentford and Liverpool could be finalized quickly if both clubs can agree on a transfer fee that reflects Kelleher’s growing value.

Liverpool are expected to seek a substantial sum for the Irish shot-stopper, given his age, experience, and potential to grow into a Premier League regular.

Kelleher has made a total of 47 appearances for the Reds, most of which came in cup games, where he impressed with crucial saves and calm distribution.

With his contract at Liverpool running until 2026, the Merseyside club hold a strong position at the negotiating table.

However, they may choose to respect the player’s desire for regular playing time and career progression by allowing him to move.

For Brentford, the acquisition of Kelleher would represent a significant boost in their long-term goalkeeping strategy.

The Bees have built a reputation for shrewd transfer dealings under manager Thomas Frank and could offer Kelleher the platform to develop into a top-tier Premier League goalkeeper.

With Euro 2028 qualification in mind, Kelleher will also be keen to secure more first-team action to cement his place in the Irish national team.

Brentford’s attractive playing style and growing Premier League stature make them an appealing destination for players seeking career advancement.

Should the deal go through, Kelleher would join a growing list of Liverpool academy graduates who have gone on to shine elsewhere in the top flight.

While Liverpool fans may be sad to see a trusted deputy leave, there is general recognition that Kelleher deserves a chance to become a No.1 at a competitive level.

The outcome of the deal may also influence Liverpool’s summer dealings, as they look to secure a reliable backup to Alisson ahead of the 2025/26 season.

For now, both clubs are deep in negotiations, and the football world watches closely as one of the Premier League’s most promising goalkeepers eyes a move that could redefine his career.

For Diaspora Digital Media Updates click on Whatsapp, or Telegram. For eyewitness accounts/ reports/ articles, write to: citizenreports@diasporadigitalmedia.com. Follow us on X (Fomerly Twitter) or Facebook