Liverpool goalkeeper Ciaomhin Kelleher set for Brentford switch

The 26-year-old Republic of Ireland international is being brought in as a direct replacement for Mark Flekken, who is set to join Bundesliga outfit Bayer Leverkusen in a deal worth around 8 million pounds.

Kelleher, who has one year remaining on his Liverpool contract, has long been regarded as one of the most capable backup keepers in the Premier League. Despite limited game time due to the presence of Alisson Becker, Kelleher amassed 25 Premier League appearances and featured in over 40 domestic and European cup matches since his debut in 2019.

During his time at Anfield, he has been part of squads that won two Premier League titles, the Champions League, FA Cup, two League Cups, and the UEFA Super Cup - an impressive haul for a player who primarily served as a number two.

With Kelleher's departure, Liverpool are preparing to welcome Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili in July. The Georgian international is expected to provide competition for Alisson as the Reds look to reinforce their goalkeeping department ahead of the new season.

Flekken, meanwhile, has earned plaudits since joining Brentford from SC Freiburg in May 2023 for a reported 11 million pounds. The Dutch shot-stopper built a reputation as a consistent performer in both the Bundesliga and Premier League, having led Germany's top flight in clean sheets over two seasons before his move to England.

Since joining the Bees, Flekken has started in all but two Premier League matches, registering 14 clean sheets and even contributing three assists - a rare tally for a goalkeeper.

With both clubs shuffling their goalkeeping packs, the upcoming moves reflect not only shifting priorities but also the increasing market value of reliable, ball-playing goalkeepers in modern football.