Chelsea want Kelleher transfer: Is Liverpool ‘keeper an upgrade? Whisper+ verdict

Latest developments

• Chelsea are plotting a summer move for Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.
• The Irishman has provided great cover for the injured Alisson this season.
• The Blues are set to offer £35 million to bring the 25-year-old to Stamford Bridge.

Whisper+ analysis

Authenticity (2/5): Sun reports being written off elsewhere

Chelsea want to sign goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher for a reported £35 million in a deal that would see the Ireland number one move to Stamford Bridge at the end of the season.

That is according to The Sun newspaper, who have a mixed record when it comes to transfer news, while top source Fabrizio Romano has already quashed the rumour.

Value (4/5): A lot of experience for a back-up

Since arriving in England to join Liverpool under-18s, Kelleher has worked his way up the pecking order at Anfield, making over 50 appearances for the Reds. He has also made a name for himself as a penalty specialist, and become Ireland's first-choice goalkeeper.

All that has come while a back-up to Alisson, who Kelleher has deputised for this season with the Brazilian out injured. His stock has continued to rise with some standout performances as Liverpool have gone clear at the top of the table, making £35 million a reasonable price tag.

Suitability (4/5): Premier League quality

In Kelleher, Chelsea would be gaining an excellent shot-stopper who they know all too well, given his heroics in the 2022 EFL Cup final against the Blues.

The one criticism is that we have yet to see Kelleher have a long, consistent period between the posts. Is he cut out for this level week in, week out?

Upgrade? (3/5): Lots of competition at the Bridge

Chelsea currently have Robert Sanchez, Filip Jorgensen, Marcus Bettinelli, Djordje Petrovic and Kepa Arrizabalaga on their books, plus youth goalkeepers. In fact, they have 11 registered ‘keepers at present.

Sanchez, Petrovic and Kepa will be the main challengers for the starting role next season, but Kelleher will fancy his chances of being an upgrade, but he could easily end up at number two again.

Logic (3/5): A move away is needed

Despite his good performances, Kelleher is unlikely to usurp Alisson as first choice for Arne Slot, and with the Reds bringing Giorgi Mamardashvili in next summer, Kelleher needs a move away.

Juventus and Napoli are also said to be interested; they might not have the same competition as Chelsea, but knowing the league could swing favour back to Enzo Maresca's side.

Whisper+ verdict: 16/25

A move away for Caoimhin in the summer looks like the right option, but there are serious doubts about Chelsea being the right fit for the Cork native, even if he is a step up from the long list of goalkeepers the Blues already have. A move to Serie A might be on the cards, so let's watch this space!