Tottenham Hotspur join Premier League duo in race for Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher

Tottenham Hotspur have entered the race for Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, according to the Irish Independent.

Kelleher has spent his entire career at Liverpool, arriving in their academy in 2015 and signing his first professional contract four years later. He made his debut for the club in September 2019, in a Carabao Cup fixture against MK Dons.

The Irishman has made 20 appearances for the Reds, with most of these coming in the domestic cups. He featured four times from a possible six in their Carabao Cup triumph last season, starting the final and keeping a clean sheet.

During these games, the 24-year-old has developed a reputation as something of a penalty expert. Four of his 20 appearances have gone to a penalty shootout, all of which were won by Liverpool.

Kelleher’s performances have earned him a place on the international stage. He made his senior debut for Republic of Ireland in June 2021, and has since won ten caps.

However, the chances of him ousting Alisson from Jurgen Klopp’s starting line-up are very slim. Consequently, he may leave Anfield in search of regular football.

According to the Irish Independent, Tottenham Hotspur are set to battle it out with Brighton and Hove Albion and Brentford for his signature. It is believed that Liverpool value him at around £20 million.

Spurs are likely to pursue a deal for a new goalkeeper this summer. Captain Hugo Lloris is 36 now, and is on the decline. Everton’s Jordan Pickford and World Cup winner Emiliano Martinez are among other names linked with a switch to north London.

Brentford are also expected to be in need of a new goalkeeper at the end of the season. Spain international David Raya is out of contract in 2024, and is seemingly unlikely to renew. The Bees may look to offload him this summer while he still has market value.

As for Brighton, their goalkeeping situation is unclear. Robert Sanchez begun the season as the first choice, but has since lost his place to Jason Steele.