Richard Hughes made a misstep last summer, and a recent transfer development only reinforces that fact.
Liverpool was very active in the transfer market last summer, but it’s clear that many of those acquisitions haven’t paid off, necessitating some major adjustments this time around.
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This includes changes at the goalkeeper position. There are increasing rumors that Liverpool may part ways with Alisson Becker, with interest from Juventus showing notable interest. Recent reports indicate that a transfer is indeed likely.
This raises the question: Could Giorgi Mamardashvili be the next number one? Not necessarily. Reports from Goal state that Liverpool is also eyeing a transfer for James Trafford from Manchester City.
Although Trafford currently serves as the backup goalkeeper for City, he has openly expressed his aspiration to secure a starting position. This suggests he’ll only make a move if assured of a number one spot.
However, this puts a spotlight on Liverpool’s 2025 transfer decision involving Caoimhin Kelleher, who transferred to Brentford. Kelleher has excelled for the Bees, just as he did whenever called upon at Anfield.
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Chasing Trafford, then, highlights the oversight of letting Kelleher go. Trafford offers similar qualities and is a homegrown talent, something Kelleher also represented. By selling Kelleher to Brentford, Liverpool created a gap in their homegrown quote, and now pursuing a comparable keeper merely a year later suggests an acknowledgment of that error. If Trafford were to join Liverpool, it would certainly raise questions about the wisdom of letting Kelleher leave.
Ultimately, it’s too late for a Kelleher return. Thus, seeking out a suitable alternative seems to be the only path forward.
Caoimhin Kelleher: Situation Overview
Brentford Performance and Contributions
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As of April 24, 2026, Caoimhín Kelleher is thriving after his £12.5 million move to Brentford last summer. The 27-year-old has finally found regular first-team action, making 32 appearances in the Premier League this season. He has been one of the league’s standout goalkeepers, achieving nine clean sheets and a 67.7% save percentage. His aptitude for saving penalties has been particularly noteworthy, having stopped three of the seven he faced this season. His consistent performances, including a 7.3 rating in a recent 0–0 draw with Fulham, have helped confirm Brentford’s strong mid-table standing.
Transfer Rumors and Possible Return
Despite his strong performances in London, Kelleher’s future is once again being discussed in the media. Reports from April 22 hint that Liverpool is contemplating a move to re-sign him as a replacement for the departing Alisson Becker, with speculation surrounding a buy-back clause. Although Kelleher appears content at Brentford, the possibility of returning to Anfield as the undisputed first-choice keeper under Arne Slot is undeniably enticing. Other Premier League teams—such as Chelsea, are also reportedly keeping an eye on his situation following his impressive breakout season as a starter.
International Standing