Jurgen Klopp led Liverpool to a comfortable 2-0 win over Wolverhampton Wanderers in his final act as manager, dropping the curtain on a rollercoaster season.
The German manager called time on an illustrious nine-year reign at Anfield and cleared out his desk after establishing himself as a club legend.
Despite the season not unfolding as Klopp had hoped, he didn’t leave the club empty-handed. The Reds conquered Chelsea at Wembley Stadium to claim a record-extending tenth League Cup title.
Goalkeepers Alisson and Caoimhin Kelleher played crucial roles in Liverpool’s somewhat successful campaign, but their futures at the club hang in the balance ahead of the summer transfer window.
Klopp’s exit could open the floodgates for plenty of departures from Liverpool this summer, and both keepers are among several players attracting interest from clubs across the globe.
Kelleher has played second fiddle to Alisson since joining the first-team in 2019. But he has the tools to thrive at a top club, especially after learning from one of the best keepers in the world.
The Republic of Ireland international has just two years left on his Liverpool contract, and his sizeable fanbase on the Emerald Isle will be watching keenly to see where their compatriot lands this summer.
Celtic has been touted as a possible destination for Kelleher and that would be an exciting move given the number of Irish fans who follow the club.
The Hoops are traditionally a popular choice among Irish sports bettors, and Kelleher’s presence in goal would undoubtedly make them even more attractive.
The best online betting sites in Ireland would be inundated with wagers if he secures a move to Celtic, but the situation may not be that simple.
Kelleher Shines in Alisson’s Absence
Alisson missed 17 games due to multiple injury problems this season. However, Kelleher was on hand to pick up the baton and took his chance with both hands.
The Brazilian is undeniably one of the best keepers in the world, and his quality was on show during the season, keeping eight clean sheets in 28 Premier League games.
He was crucial to Klopp’s brand of football. His exceptional passing ability was vital to Liverpool’s build-up and lightning-quick counter-attacks.
However, a hamstring injury in mid-February kept him out for nearly two months. He missed 13 games, but Liverpool were still in good hands as Kelleher stepped up to the plate.
The Ireland international kept five clean sheets in 26 games across all competitions, but his performance in the League Cup final against Chelsea highlighted his importance to the Reds.
Kelleher made nine saves to help Liverpool lift the trophy, living up to his tag as the best second-choice keeper in the world.
Despite his impressive performances for Liverpool, he is unlikely to overtake Alisson as the first-choice stopper. He may be tempted to take a lead role away from Anfield this summer after being Alisson’s understudy for the past five years.
Liverpool Braced for a Summer Exodus
There could be a major shake-up at Anfield this summer, with several Liverpool stars linked with a move to the Saudi Pro League (SPL), including Alisson.
The Brazilian still has three years to run on his Liverpool contract, and he has shown no desire to part ways with the six-time European champions.
However, he is on the radar of SPL clubs, and they are preparing to test the waters with a bid for the former AS Roma stopper.
Alisson’s potential exit could pave the way for Kelleher to finally claim a starting berth at Anfield. But there’s also a chance that the Reds sign a new keeper who bumps the Irishman back into playing second fiddle.
Despite the speculation surrounding Alisson’s future, Liverpool are unlikely to entertain the idea of selling their first-choice goalie. New manager Arne Slot will also likely stick with the current pecking order, which could open the door for Kelleher’s potential exit.
Kelleher progressed through Liverpool’s academy ranks, so leaving his boyhood club is undeniably a big decision. However, he deserves the chance to forge a career as a first-choice keeper.
The 25-year-old is already attracting considerable interest from potential suitors, with several clubs across Europe monitoring his situation.
He is unlikely to get a chance to establish himself at Liverpool even if Alisson is lured away by the riches of the Middle East, and this summer could be the perfect opportunity for him to jump ship.
A keeper of Kelleher’s calibre should be starting every week. With just two years left on his contract at Anfield, the Irishman is at a critical juncture in his career.
He still has his best years ahead of him and needs to prioritise joining a club where he can display his brilliance on a regular basis. Celtic would be the ideal move.
