Breaking Transfer: Caoimhin Kelleher Set for €35M Move to Leeds United After Agreeing Four-Year Deal from Liverpool
In a major development ahead of the summer transfer window, Republic of Ireland international and Liverpool backup goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher is set to complete a €35 million move to Leeds United. According to sources close to the negotiations, the 26-year-old has agreed personal terms on a four-year contract with the Championship side, with only a medical left to finalize the deal.
This high-profile switch comes as Leeds United prepares for a return to the Premier League, and signals the club’s intent to build a squad capable of stability and growth in the top flight. Kelleher, long hailed as one of the most talented goalkeeping prospects in Europe, is expected to play a pivotal role in that project.
A New Challenge for Kelleher
Kelleher’s decision to leave Liverpool comes after years of serving as Alisson Becker’s understudy. Despite limited appearances, the Irishman consistently impressed in domestic cup competitions and in brief Premier League cameos, earning praise from manager Jürgen Klopp and supporters alike.
However, with first-team opportunities few and far between—and Liverpool reportedly pursuing younger goalkeeping options—Kelleher made it clear he was ready for a new challenge. A permanent move to Leeds United offers just that.
This is the right time for Caoimhin to take the next step,” said a source close to the player. “He’s proven himself when given the chance at Liverpool, and now he’s hungry to be the No. 1 at a big club.
Leeds’ Ambitious Project
For Leeds United, the signing represents both ambition and strategy. With the club eyeing Premier League promotion, management is keen to add top-flight-ready talent to key positions. Kelleher, with his calm presence, shot-stopping ability, and experience under pressure, fits the profile perfectly.
The Whites are expected to part ways with Illan Meslier this summer, whose form has been inconsistent over the past two seasons. Bringing in Kelleher not only strengthens their goalkeeping department but also adds a player hungry to prove himself at the highest level.
Reports suggest that manager Daniel Farke played a crucial role in convincing Kelleher to join, offering assurances of a clear path to the starting role and outlining the club’s long-term vision.
Anfield Exit with Respect
Liverpool, though reluctant to lose a homegrown talent, has respected Kelleher’s desire for regular minutes. The club will reportedly receive a fee in the region of €35 million, a figure seen as good business for both parties considering the player’s age, potential, and international experience.
Kelleher leaves Liverpool having made over 20 first-team appearances and winning several major honors, including the Premier League, Champions League, FA Cup, and EFL Cup. His penalty heroics in the 2022 Carabao Cup final, where he scored the decisive spot-kick in the shootout, remain a cherished memory for Reds fans.
What’s Next?
With a medical expected in the coming days, Kelleher’s move could be officially announced before the end of the week. He will likely join up with Leeds’ preseason squad and be ready to take the No. 1 shirt for their Premier League return.
This transfer marks a significant step for both player and club: a chance for Kelleher to become a top-tier starter, and for Leeds to secure a goalkeeper with the pedigree and composure needed to anchor their defense for years to come.
