'My understanding' - Newcastle United & Chelsea transfer swoop mooted for Liverpool as deal agreed
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The Republic of Ireland international is expected to leave Anfield in the summer when Giorgi Mamardashvili arrives from Valencia after a deal was agreed last summer. With Alisson as number one, the Georgian will likely replace Kelleher as the back-up option.
With 61 appearances for the Reds to his name, Murphy believes Kelleher is ready for a big move and has named Stamford Bridge or St James’ Park as “wonderful options”.
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Hide AdMovement in Newcastle’s goalkeeping department is certain this summer. Martin Dubravka, John Ruddy and Mark Gillespie are out of contract while Odysseas Vlachodimos could look for a route out of St James’ Park.
Meanwhile, Nick Pope’s position as number one has come under scrutiny having been out injured since the start of December.
Newcastle continue to be linked with a move for Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford but Kelleher might be an option.
“I think next season at Liverpool we will have Alisson starting and Giorgi Mamardashvili on the bench with Caoimhin Kelleher leaving," Murphy said. “My understanding is that Kelleher will leave and there won't be short of takers, he is an outstanding goalkeeper and deserves the chance to go and be a number one.
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Hide Ad“I think he will get a really good move and Alisson will have a season in front of Mamardashvili to help him learn and get settled.
“Where could Kelleher go? Well, I think Chelsea's an obvious one, although I think Robert Sanchez is improving hugely. I think he gets some unfair criticism for a few mistakes here in the season. I think he's actually a really good goalkeeper.
“He just gets a bit nervous at times with the ball at his feet. But Chelsea's an obvious one and I think probably Newcastle, if they’re thinking of evolving as a club and becoming more competitive.
“Nick Pope has been a great keeper over the years but having more injuries at the minute and he’s not the best with his feet. He'll admit that himself. I think for Kelleher, Newcastle or Chelsea are two wonderful options for him.”
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