Aston Villa are preparing for a potential goalkeeping shake-up this summer, with reports indicating that Unai Emery’s side have identified Liverpool’s Caoimhin Kelleher as a top target to succeed Emiliano Martinez — should the Argentine World Cup winner leave Villa Park in the upcoming transfer window.
Kelleher, 25, has long been touted as one of the most promising back-up goalkeepers in the Premier League. Despite limited opportunities behind Alisson Becker at Anfield, the Irish international has consistently impressed when called upon, showcasing composure, sharp reflexes, and confidence in distribution — qualities that have not gone unnoticed by several Premier League clubs.
Sources close to Villa suggest the club are bracing for serious interest in Martinez this summer. The Argentine international has been a key figure in Villa’s resurgence under Emery, helping guide them to a top-four finish and Champions League qualification. However, his growing profile on the European stage, combined with interest from elite clubs across the continent, has led Villa’s recruitment team to explore potential replacements in advance.
Kelleher fits the bill perfectly. Still relatively young in goalkeeper terms and hungry for regular first-team football, he has reached a crossroads in his career. With Alisson showing no signs of slowing down at Liverpool, the Cork native may need to move on to fulfil his ambitions of becoming a regular starter at both club and international level.
However, Aston Villa are not alone in their admiration. According to multiple sources, Chelsea, Newcastle United, and Bournemouth are also monitoring Kelleher’s situation closely. Each club has its own reasons for targeting the Liverpool goalkeeper, making Villa’s pursuit far from straightforward.
Chelsea’s Goalkeeping Conundrum
Chelsea’s interest is driven by uncertainty surrounding their current options. Kepa Arrizabalaga, once the world’s most expensive goalkeeper, spent the season on loan at Real Madrid and appears unlikely to return to Stamford Bridge. Meanwhile, Robert Sánchez and Djordje Petrovic have alternated in goal, but neither has firmly cemented the No.1 role. Kelleher’s skill set — particularly his ball-playing ability — aligns well with Chelsea’s desire for a modern, possession-based goalkeeper, and they could be prepared to offer a long-term starting role.
Newcastle United’s Planning for the Future
Newcastle, too, are looking to bolster their goalkeeping ranks. While Nick Pope has been solid since his arrival, injuries and age (Pope is 32) may prompt Eddie Howe to consider a younger alternative. Kelleher could provide immediate competition and eventually succeed Pope as the Magpies’ first-choice keeper. Given Newcastle’s ambitions to establish themselves as perennial top-four contenders, a reliable and forward-thinking goalkeeper is high on their wishlist.
Bournemouth’s Ambitious Play
Perhaps the most surprising suitor is Bournemouth. Under manager Andoni Iraola, the Cherries have shown signs of tactical evolution and greater ambition. Neto, their current No.1, has performed admirably, but the club is reportedly looking for a longer-term solution. Kelleher, with his Premier League and European experience, could represent a statement signing for a side looking to cement their place in the top half of the table.
Villa’s Strategic Approach
Despite the competition, Aston Villa believe they hold a strong hand. The allure of Champions League football, a manager with a proven European pedigree, and a clear pathway to the No.1 shirt could be decisive factors. Villa also have a well-documented commitment to investing in young, hungry players with high ceilings — a profile Kelleher fits neatly.
Furthermore, Villa’s recruitment has been methodical under Monchi and Unai Emery, targeting players who can adapt to Emery’s tactical demands. Kelleher’s calmness under pressure and ability to start attacks from the back align with Emery’s desire for a goalkeeper who can do more than just stop shots.
Liverpool’s Stance
Liverpool, for their part, are aware of Kelleher’s ambitions and may be open to letting him leave — but only at the right price. The club reportedly values him between £20m and £25m, a reasonable figure for a goalkeeper of his age and potential in today’s market. Jurgen Klopp, before his departure, often praised Kelleher’s professionalism and performances, hinting that the Irishman deserves to be a No.1 somewhere.
New manager Arne Slot will have to make an early decision on whether to retain Kelleher as a back-up or cash in to reinvest in other areas of the squad. Much may depend on how Slot views Liverpool’s squad depth and whether he believes an adequate replacement for Alisson’s understudy can be sourced.
What Happens Next?
With the summer transfer window fast approaching, Kelleher is expected to be at the centre of an intriguing tug-of-war. For the player, the decision may boil down to guaranteed playing time and long-term development. For Aston Villa, landing Kelleher could be a major coup and a signal of intent as they prepare for a return to Europe’s elite competition.
But with three other clubs ready to pounce, Villa will need to move decisively. The race is on — and Kelleher’s next move could reshape the goalkeeping landscape of the Premier League.
