**West Ham are regarded as underdogs in the race to secure the services of Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, according to _Sky Sports_ reporter Lyall Thomas.**
The Republic of Ireland international is expected to be sold by the Premier League champions this summer, with the arrival of Giorgi Mamardashvili moving him down to 3rd choice.
Kelleher’s availability has alerted several clubs, with Brentford, Leeds and the Hammers all said to be vying for his signature.
However, Thomas [claims](https://www.skysports.com/football/news/11095/13376000/brentford-approach-liverpool-over-transfer-for-caoimhin-kelleher-as-bayer-leverkusen-close-in-on-mark-flekken) that Brentford are in “pole position” to purchase the shot-stopper at the moment.
The Bees have had dealings with Liverpool recently, having signed both Fabio Carvalho and Sepp van den Berg from the Reds over the last twelve months.
West Ham need to recruit another keeper
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It was announced earlier this month that Lukasz Fabianski would leave the London Stadium at the end of his contract. The Polish international has been with the Irons for seven years.
Alphonse Areola is the club’s current No.1 but his poor form this campaign has led many to question the Frenchman’s long-term future. In that context, it is understandable why West Ham are seriously contemplating a move for a replacement.
How much will Kelleher cost?
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Thomas says Liverpool are looking for a fee “over £20m”. Considering the Irishman’s pedigree, most fans would agree that he would be worth the investment.
Speaking about Kelleher last year, Reds head coach Arne Slot paid tribute to his second-choice keeper but he also emphasised that he was never going to displace Alisson:
“Caoimh has done outstanding, last season and this season again as well but the moment Alisson is fit, he will be our first goalkeeper.”
With that being the case, it was always felt that Kelleher would be switching teams this summer. It remains to be seen if West Ham can move ahead of Brentford as favourites to snap him up.
[**Read more as ex-West Ham striker Teddy Sheringham recommends that his former club sign an alternative to Kelleher**](https://hammersheadlines.com/west-ham-transfer-news-aaron-ramsdale-teddy-sheringham/)