Former Premier League striker Darren Bent has advised Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher to leave Anfield, arguing that now is an ideal time for him to pursue a new challenge amid speculation linking him to Chelsea.
Bent suggests a move to Stamford Bridge could be the opportunity Kelleher needs to realize his ambition of becoming a first-choice goalkeeper.
Liverpool added to their goalkeeping ranks during the summer transfer window by signing Giorgi Mamardashvili, a Georgian goalkeeper who was immediately loaned back to Valencia for the season.
Mamardashvili is anticipated to compete with Alisson Becker for the number-one spot or potentially take over the position next season.
This signing has raised questions about Kelleher’s future at Liverpool, as he faces the possibility of slipping further down the pecking order.
Despite limited game time, Kelleher has consistently impressed when given the chance.
The Republic of Ireland international recently showcased his skills by saving a penalty from Kylian Mbappé in a match against Real Madrid.
However, Kelleher has been vocal about his desire for regular first-team football.
Earlier this season, he stated, “I’ve made it clear over the last few years that I want to be a number one and play week in, week out.
Sometimes it may seem like it’s completely my decision, but it’s not always in my hands.”
Bent sees parallels between Kelleher’s current predicament and that of Emiliano Martinez, who left Arsenal in 2020 to become Aston Villa’s starting goalkeeper.
Martinez thrived after the move, becoming a standout performer for Villa and later achieving international success by winning the World Cup with Argentina.
According to Bent, Kelleher could follow a similar path if he makes the switch to Chelsea, especially given ongoing concerns about the consistency of Chelsea’s current goalkeeper, Robert Sánchez.
During an interview with talkSPORT, Bent highlighted Martinez’s journey as an example for Kelleher. “Look at Emiliano Martinez,” he said.
“He spent a decade at Arsenal, finally got his chance, performed brilliantly, won the FA Cup, and then moved on to bigger things.
Kelleher is 25 now, and it’s time for him to take that step.
I think Chelsea offers a great opportunity for him. At £35 million, it’s not even a risky move.”
With Chelsea reportedly expressing interest in Kelleher, a transfer could provide the Irish goalkeeper with a platform to cement his status as a top-tier player.
At the same time, it could help Chelsea address their ongoing concerns about goalkeeping reliability.
