Liverpool’s transfer plans are taking shape, with Virgil van Dijk’s early promise of a “busy summer” looking more accurate by the week.
Jeremie Frimpong’s transfer from Bayer Leverkusen could be announced shortly, while there’s hope that his teammate Florian Wirtz will also end up at Anfield. Meanwhile, Milos Kerkez and Hugo Ekitike have been mentioned as serious possibilities, giving fans plenty to feel optimistic about heading into the summer months.
But those incomings will inevitably lead to departures. That will certainly help in terms of financing transfers, while clearing space in a squad that has typically avoided injuries since Arne Slot ’s arrival feels crucial. There are also several players the Dutchman clearly doesn’t trust.
One inevitable exit is Caoihmin Kelleher. The goalkeeper all but admitted that after the final game of the season, when he again reiterated his desire to be no.1 elsewhere.
According to the Irish Examiner, Brentford, West Ham United, and Leeds United have all enquired about Kelleher. The report adds that the Irishman will be allowed to leave if a sufficient offer is received, with a bid of more than £20 million ($27M) expected to match the Reds’ valuation.
The Liverpool Echo reports a similar price could be needed to extract Kelleher from Anfield, with Brentford in need of a replacement for Mark Flekken, who appears bound for Bayer Leverkusen. Bournemouth and Aston Villa also hold interest in the 26-year-old, but Kelleher is “unlikely to rush a decision”.
Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher
Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher is expected to leave this summer. (Image: Getty Images)
Luis Diaz is another player linked with a summer exit. The Colombian played an integral role in Liverpool’s title win and played in 36 of the 38 league matches, but didn’t always hold down his preferred position in the side.
Diaz flitted between a central role and playing off the left. But that versatility is seen as a plus for Barcelona’s Hansi Flick, claims Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo.
It states Flick values players who can operate in multiple positions, something which will inform his transfer policy this summer. Diaz is very much in that category.
Luis Diaz in action for Liverpool against Brighton
Luis Diaz has been linked with a summer move to Barcelona (Image: Getty Images)
Meanwhile, Saudi Arabian side Al-Nassr has identified Diaz as its “top summer transfer target,” a ccording to talkSPORT. The report adds that Liverpool is aware of the club’s interest. However, Liverpool’s no.7 has previously said he will discuss a new contract with the club this summer.
“We’ll be talking about it [about renewing], we’ll talk about it. For me, I’d stay however many years it takes,” he told Colombian news outlet Telemundo Deportes earlier this month.
“It also depends on the club, everything. These are details that are worked out separately. But I’m very calm, happy and enjoying the Premier League.”