Liverpool transfer news: 'Concrete' interest in James Trafford amid Kelleher doubts

© IMAGO

Liverpool have got 'concrete' interest in Burnley goalkeeper James Trafford amid doubts over the long-term future of Alisson Becker’s understudy Caoimhin Kelleher, according to a report. 

Kelleher, 25, has admitted to uncertainty around his Anfield career given his status as long-term No.2 and discussions took place last summer over the terms of a potential exit. 

Celtic and Nottingham Forest have both been credited with interest in the 12-cap Ireland international, who is under contract until 2026

The Scottish champions are looking for a replacement for No.1 Joe Hart, who is retiring at the end of the season. 

It is believed the Reds value Kelleher at around £20 million and if he is sold then they will no doubt have to go into the market for a replacement with Adrian also out of contract this summer. 

© IMAGO - 24th January 2024 Craven Cottage, Fulham, London, England Carabao Cup Football Semi Final, Second Leg, Fulham versus Liverpool Caoimhin Kelleher of Liverpool celebrates with Conor Bradley after Liverpool win 3-2 on aggregate PUBLICATIONxNOTxINxUK ActionPlus12601553 ShaunxBrooks

Villarreal’s Filip Jorgensen has been scouted and now comes the report from Football Insider that England squad member Trafford is under consideration. 

The 21-year-old has recently lost his place in the relegation strugglers’ starting line-up with manager Vincent Kompany turning back to Kosovo international Arijanet Muric. 

It’s been reported that Liverpool recruitment delegates have watched Trafford on a number of occasions this season and that their interest in Trafford is 'concrete'. 

Trafford cost Burnley an initial £15m in a surprise transfer from Manchester City last summer - a deal that could eventually reach £19m including add-ons. 

The Carlisle-born shot stopper is under contract at Turf Moor until 2027 and previously impressed on loan at Bolton Wanderers during the 2022-23 season. 

Kelleher admits to doubts over future

Liverpool have had to rely on their back-up goalkeeper Kelleher more than expected this season with Alisson suffering a debilitating hamstring injury back in February

In all the 25-year-old has played 26 matches for the Merseysiders this season and was between the sticks when Jurgen Klopp’s side won the Carabao Cup final against Chelsea back in February. 

"I’ve obviously had a lot of games this season, so the decision to stay was probably the right one,” he told the Liverpool Echo earlier this year. 

“There were obviously discussions because I wanted to play as much as I can. It was clear that because of the circumstances I was in, that I had to stay.”

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