Chelsea ‘Planning’ Shock Raid on Liverpool Star Who Has Already Admitted He Could Leave the Club

Chelsea are reportedly preparing a bold summer move for Liverpool’s backup goalkeeper, Caoimhin Kelleher, as they look to resolve their goalkeeping struggles ahead of the 2025/26 season. The Irish shot-stopper, who has expressed his desire to leave Anfield in search of regular first-team football, could be one of Enzo Maresca’s top transfer targets.

Despite their heavy spending in previous windows, Chelsea opted for a quieter approach in January, refraining from making any significant signings. Instead, they focused on trimming their squad, allowing players like Ben Chilwell, Joao Felix, and Axel Disasi to leave on loan while offloading several younger prospects. However, with the summer window approaching, the Blues are now setting their sights on key reinforcements.

Kelleher, 26, has been a crucial figure in Liverpool’s domestic cup campaigns, playing a vital role in their run to the 2025 Carabao Cup final. His shot-stopping ability and composure under pressure have earned him praise, and his recent performances have not gone unnoticed. Reports from TBR Football suggest that Chelsea are one of several clubs monitoring his situation closely.

Liverpool’s long-term goalkeeping strategy could play a significant role in Kelleher’s decision to leave. Last summer, the club secured the signing of Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who is currently on loan at Sevilla. With Mamardashvili set to return to Anfield, Kelleher may find himself further down the pecking order, making a summer exit increasingly likely.

Chelsea’s goalkeeping situation remains uncertain, with neither Robert Sanchez nor Filip Jorgensen convincing Maresca that they are ready to be the club’s undisputed number one. As a result, the London club is eager to bring in a new goalkeeper, and Kelleher’s availability presents an attractive opportunity.

Kelleher has previously hinted at his desire to secure regular playing time. Speaking during a Republic of Ireland press conference last September, he made his ambitions clear:

“I made it clear in the last few years that I want to go somewhere and be a number one. The club has made that decision to get a goalkeeper [Mamardashvili], which makes it look like they’ve made a decision to go another direction. Liverpool have rejected a few bids as well. It’s not always in my hands to fully make the decision. My ambition is clear. I’m good enough & I want to go and play week in, week out.”

His comments suggest that a move away from Liverpool is inevitable, and Chelsea could provide him with the platform he desires. The Blues’ struggles in goal this season have made finding a reliable goalkeeper a priority, and Kelleher’s experience in high-pressure situations could make him an ideal solution.

However, Chelsea are not the only club interested in the Irish international. Bournemouth, Newcastle United, and Celtic are also reportedly considering making a move for Kelleher in the summer, setting up a potential bidding war.

Bournemouth, under Andoni Iraola, are looking for a long-term solution between the sticks, while Newcastle’s uncertain goalkeeping situation—due to injuries and fluctuating performances—could prompt them to enter the race. Meanwhile, Celtic see Kelleher as an ideal successor to Joe Hart, who is nearing the end of his career.

For Liverpool, Kelleher’s departure would mark the end of an era for a player who has been a loyal servant to the club, often stepping up in key cup fixtures. However, given their current depth in the goalkeeping department, the Reds might be open to a sale if a suitable offer arrives.

The financial aspect of the deal will also be a crucial factor. Chelsea’s spending in recent windows has been heavily scrutinized, and they may need to navigate Financial Fair Play regulations carefully. Whether they can meet Liverpool’s asking price remains to be seen, but the club’s need for a goalkeeper could push them to act aggressively in negotiations.

As the summer window approaches, Kelleher’s future will be one of the key storylines to watch. His talent and ambition make him a highly sought-after player, and if Chelsea can secure his signature, it could be a move that reshapes their goalkeeping department for years to come.

For now, Liverpool will continue to rely on Kelleher as they compete on multiple fronts, but it seems increasingly likely that his time at Anfield is nearing its conclusion. The coming months will determine whether he becomes the latest high-profile addition to Maresca’s Chelsea project.