Newcastle United are exploring a move for Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher as part of their plans to upgrade between the posts this summer.
According to a report from ChronicleLive, the Magpies have turned their attention to the Republic of Ireland international after concerns over both Nick Pope and Martin Dubravka’s long-term suitability as the club’s first-choice keeper.
With sporting director Paul Mitchell preparing for a critical first window, securing a reliable No.1 is near the top of the club’s to-do list — and Kelleher is now firmly on the radar.
Eddie Howe has rotated between Pope and Dubravka this season, but neither has truly made the position their own. Pope’s injury issues and Dubravka’s inconsistency have left Newcastle vulnerable at key moments, and there is a growing consensus that a long-term upgrade is needed.
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James Trafford has been a target since last summer, but Burnley’s return to the Premier League could complicate that pursuit. As a result, Newcastle have begun assessing alternative options — and Kelleher is among the most appealing.
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Kelleher has been on the fringes at Liverpool for years but stepped up admirably in Alisson’s absence this season. With Giorgi Mamardashvili set to return from loan and take over as backup, the 25-year-old is expected to leave Anfield in search of regular starts.
ChronicleLive reports that Liverpool would demand at least £40 million for Kelleher, which may feel excessive for a backup goalkeeper. But with Chelsea and other Premier League clubs monitoring the situation, Newcastle could face competition.
Still, the prospect of Champions League football at St James’ Park — and the chance to become a guaranteed starter in a high-profile project — may tip the balance in Newcastle’s favour.
Trafford remains the ideal target given his youth, upside, and homegrown status, but if Burnley prove difficult to negotiate with, Kelleher offers a more Premier League-proven alternative. The price tag may be steep, but so is the ambition within the club.
With a huge summer ahead, this could be one of the most important calls Eddie Howe and Paul Mitchell make.