Kelleher ‘closer to Aston Villa transfer’ after what Liverpool team-mate’s said
Emi Martinez looks to leave Aston Villa this summer after a teary goodbye at Villa Park.
Villa fans are praying for a victory at Old Trafford this weekend to fulfil the dream a Champions League qualification for the second season in a row.
Their victory over Tottenham last Friday (16 May) placed them in sixth, only missing out on the top five due to goal difference.
After the final game of the season, Unai Emery will need to prepare for next season as star players may be leaving Villa Park this summer.
Premier League keeper could become Martinez’s successor
In the post-match celebrations after the Tottenham victory, Martinez was seen to wave goodbye to the place he’s called home for five years.
Martinez, who has been one of Villa’s greatest ever signings, could make a record-breaking exit, with both Saudi Arabia and Manchester United interested in the Argentinian.
Aston Villa may rely on selling the World Cup winner to comply with financial regulations, alongside striker Ollie Watkins.
Liverpool backup keeper Caoimhin Kelleher could become a credible option for Aston Villa, as reports suggest Villa are keeping an eye on his next move.
The 26-year-old is currently number two at Liverpool as Alison Becker has become the long-established first choice.
However, the arrival of Georgian international Giorgi Mamardashvili this summer could also push Kelleher to leave Merseyside after his position becomes more competitive.
Kelleher has spoke about wanting to play regular football, but that is now even more unlikely to happen at Anfield amid a new interview given by Mamardashvili.
In quotes shared by Fabrizio Romano on X (22 May), Mamardashvili said: “I’m not considering another loan move.
“I will spend next season at Liverpool. I’ll go to Liverpool and give my all, just like I did at Valencia. I’ll work hard every single day, training with Alisson will help me.”
With Mamardashvili intending to challenge for a spot at Liverpool, that could push Kelleher closer to a Villa move.
Villa need to secure an experienced replacement
Martinez has played a crucial role since joining Villa, with his leadership and shot-stopping skills that will need to be replaced.
Kelleher has become a stable backup for Liverpool over the last two seasons, and could offer a suitable replacement to Martinez.
| Matches played | 20 |
| Goals conceded | 20 |
| Clean sheets | 9 |
Villa have also identified and approached Lucas Chevalier, who has kept 11 clean sheets in 34 league appearances for Lille this season, as they qualified for the Europa League.
Whoever Villa sets as a Martinez replacement has big boots to fill, as the World Cup winner has been crucial in writing Villa’s history since 2020.