Newcastle United have been working hard behind the scenes to improve their squad this summer. One area that’s become a growing concern is the goalkeeper position.
With questions over who will be the long-term number one, the club had been closely watching one experienced Premier League shot-stopper.
The hope was to bring in someone who could offer calmness, quality with the ball at his feet, and the confidence to command his box.
The target had spent several years at one of England’s top clubs, quietly building a strong reputation. He didn’t always start, but whenever he played, he delivered.
Fans and pundits agreed, he looked ready to take on a full-time role as a first-choice goalkeeper. And Newcastle were ready to make their move.
But unfortunately, the club has now missed out. The player has decided to join another Premier League side instead, one that can guarantee him the number one spot from day one.
Newcastle United major transfer blow as target chooses rivals
According to The Athletic, after years as Alisson’s understudy at Liverpool, Caoimhin Kelleher will now get his big break at Brentford.
It’s a blow for the Magpies, who had hoped to convince the 26-year-old that St. James’ Park was the best place for him to step up and shine.
Brentford moved quickly and met Liverpool’s demands. With their own goalkeeper, Mark Flekken, heading to Bayer Leverkusen, the Bees needed a reliable replacement and they found one before Newcastle could act.
Now, Eddie Howe and his recruitment team must look elsewhere. One name that’s been mentioned is James Trafford from Burnley, a younger option with big potential.
But he’s also attracting interest from other Premier League sides, including Manchester United.
The race for a new keeper is still on, but missing out on Kelleher will sting especially, with how close Newcastle seemed to landing him.