Brentford have secured the signing of Republic of Ireland goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher from Liverpool in a deal worth an initial £12.5 million, with potential add-ons that could see the fee rise to £18 million. The move comes as the Bees part ways with Netherlands goalkeeper Mark Flekken, who has joined Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen for a reported £8 million.
Kelleher, 26, has penned a five-year contract with Brentford, which includes an option for the club to extend the deal by an additional 12 months. The transfer follows Liverpool’s acquisition of Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who will arrive in July to challenge Alisson Becker for the number one spot at Anfield.
Speaking on his departure, Kelleher said, “I don’t think it was very difficult for me to leave [Liverpool]. I felt for my own career that the time was right for me to go, to be a number one and to play every week.” He added, “I heard of some interest a number of weeks ago. Once I knew Brentford was in for me, it was definitely one I was really excited about and wanted to do as quickly as possible.”
Kelleher made 25 Premier League appearances for Liverpool since his debut five years ago and featured in over 40 cup matches. During his time at Anfield, he won two Premier League titles, the Champions League, the FA Cup, two League Cups, and the UEFA Super Cup.