Former Premier League striker Darren Bent has urged Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher to leave Anfield, suggesting it’s the perfect time for him to seek a fresh challenge amid recent links to Chelsea. Bent believes a move to Stamford Bridge could offer Kelleher the chance to fulfill his ambitions of becoming a first-choice goalkeeper.
Liverpool bolstered their squad during the summer transfer window with the signing of Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who was immediately loaned back to Valencia for the season. Mamardashvili is expected to either challenge Alisson Becker for the number-one spot or claim it outright next season. This development has likely left Kelleher questioning his future at the club, as he faces the prospect of being pushed further down the pecking order.
Despite limited opportunities at Liverpool, Kelleher has consistently impressed whenever called upon. The Republic of Ireland international demonstrated his quality again recently, saving a penalty from Kylian Mbappé during a clash against Real Madrid. However, Kelleher has openly expressed his desire to play regular first-team football, stating earlier this season, “I made it clear over the last few years that I want to be a number one and play week in, week out. Sometimes it may seem like it’s completely my decision, but it’s not always in my hands.”
Bent sees similarities between Kelleher’s situation and that of Emiliano Martinez, who left Arsenal in 2020 to become Aston Villa’s first-choice goalkeeper. Martinez’s move proved transformative, as he flourished at Villa and went on to win the World Cup with Argentina. Bent believes Kelleher could follow a similar trajectory if he moves to Chelsea, particularly as doubts linger over the reliability of Chelsea’s current goalkeeper, Robert Sánchez.
“Look at Emiliano Martinez,” Bent explained during an interview with talkSPORT. “He spent a decade at Arsenal, finally got his chance, performed brilliantly, won the FA Cup, and then moved on to bigger things. Kelleher is 25 now, and it’s time for him to take that step. I think Chelsea offers a great opportunity for him. At £35 million, it’s not even a risky move.”
With Chelsea reportedly interested in securing Kelleher’s services, the move could provide the Irishman with the chance to establish himself as a top-tier goalkeeper while helping Chelsea address their goalkeeping
concerns.
