Klopp demands ‘extraordinary offer’ to sanction expected Liverpool exit with two departures downplayed

Jurgen Klopp has insisted that he expects Caoimhin Kelleher to remain at Liverpool next season, barring an ‘extraordinary offer’ from another club.

Kelleher is currently second in command in Liverpool’s goalkeeping department. Dislodging Alisson Becker from the number one spot seems almost impossible. Therefore, at the age of 24, Kelleher has been tipped to seek more frequent playing opportunities elsewhere.

There have been recent links with a transfer to Tottenham, as well as the likes of Aston Villa and Brentford. But Kelleher remains under contract with Liverpool until 2026.

And speaking at a press conference on Friday, Liverpool manager Klopp has claimed that he thinks Kelleher – and third-choice goalkeeper Adrian – could still be at his disposal next season.

“Caoimh Kelleher? What’s happening with Kelleher?” Klopp said. “He has a contract. You want us to say goodbye (to Adrian) just in case?

“Honestly, I can’t see Caoimh leaving. It must be an extraordinary offer for me to start thinking, I have to say.

“Adrian, if we don’t say goodbye, what could that mean? That he probably stays. If nothing in the papers, then it’s not decided yet, finally.

“We will not do, just in case, but I have a rather good feeling that we will keep working in that position.”

Reports on Thursday indicated that Liverpool have opened talks with Adrian about extending his contract beyond its current expiry date of June 30.

The chances of the Spaniard staying on board are open, therefore. Kelleher’s fate of leaving has seemed more certain, but Klopp’s comments may put his departure in doubt.

Kelleher has only made three appearances in cup competitions for Liverpool this season. Meanwhile, Adrian only appeared in the Community Shield win back in July.

Klopp thanks four departing Liverpool ‘legends’

Four players who definitely will be leaving Liverpool in the summer are Roberto Firmino, James Milner, Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain.

Saturday’s home game against Aston Villa – during which Klopp will be serving a touchline ban – will give them a chance to say farewell to the Anfield crowd.

“This game is super difficult for a number of reasons,” Klopp said. “We have spoken with the boys this week that it’s super difficult and super emotional. We say goodbye from my point of view to four Liverpool legends.”

The manager concluded: “We love them. But it’s professional football and nothing is forever, that’s how it is. It is a good moment because it means one chapter will be closed and we can start writing a new one.

“I will be forever thankful to them. Without them, nothing would have happened.”

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