Liverpool star gives surprise transfer hint after first Arne Slot meeting

One of Liverpool’s first team players has hinted at a surprise move away from the club just after just a week of pre-season training with new manager Arne Slot.

Goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher has been linked with a move away from Anfield this summer amid reports he’s keen for regular first-team football, with the Irishman reduced to playing second fiddle to Alisson throughout Jurgen Klopp’s tenure. Since making his debut for the Reds in 2019, he’s made 47 appearances for the club.

The majority of those actually came last season, with the 25-year-old featuring 26 times across all competitions. Due to Alisson’s long-term injury, Kelleher was able to enjoy frequent game time and was named in a Premier League starting lineup on 10 occasions.

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With Alisson still on an extended period of leave following his recent exploits in the Copa America with Brazil, Kelleher has been able to impress his new boss in the first week of training. However, the Irishman may still be keeping one eye open for opportunities elsewhere following his most recent comments.

Speaking to the Liverpool club website, Kelleher said: “[My targets are] similar to last year really. Obviously I had a lot of games last season, which was really good. So just looking to do the same really and keep the same level of performance as well.”

Should Alisson avoid any further injuries, however, then it’s unlikely Kelleher will have the same amount of playing time as he did last season. The young keeper could therefore be restricted to domestic cup competitions, but if the Reds fail to go far in either the Carabao Cup or the FA Cup, it could prove to be a tough season for him.

Kelleher has previously indicated he will sit down with Slot and the club’s hierarchy this summer after reiterating his desire to become first-choice. He was heavily linked with a move away from Anfield last summer before Klopp convinced him to stay, while Nottingham Forest came calling in January but were rebuffed in their attempts.

Liverpool will not let their back-up goalkeeper leave for a small sum this summer if they allow him to depart, however. The Reds would only entertain a bid worth well in excess of $26m (£20m/€24m) for Kelleher, This Is Anfield reports, as they would want to ensure that they got a fee that reflects his significant experience and quality.

It was also revealed last week that Liverpool is rumored to be keeping tabs on Real Madrid goalkeeper Andriy Lunin after the player cast doubts over his future despite an impressive campaign with the Spanish giants. Should the Reds strike a deal for the Ukrainian, it could spell bad news for Kelleher, and potentially confirm the end of his Anfield career.