The rumors surrounding Anfield’s goalkeeping department have hit a fever pitch. With the summer 2026 transfer window approaching, the narrative of a “shock return” for Caoimhin Kelleher has shifted from mere fan fiction to a serious tactical discussion.
After leaving Liverpool for Brentford in 2025 to finally secure a No. 1 spot, Kelleher has proven he is a Premier League elite. Now, with Liverpool’s goalkeeping hierarchy in a state of flux, the Irishman is reportedly open to a homecoming—but he isn’t coming back to sit on the bench.
The “Perfect Storm” at Anfield
Why would Liverpool even consider re-signing a player they sold just a year ago? The answer lies in a combination of aging legends and struggling successors.
* Alisson Becker’s Crossroads: While Alisson remains one of the world’s best, his contract is entering its final stages (set to expire in 2027 after a likely extension). With heavy interest from AC Milan and the Saudi Pro League, Liverpool must plan for life after the Brazilian icon.
* The Mamardashvili Struggle: Signed as the “heir apparent,” Giorgi Mamardashvili has endured a difficult start to life in England. His form has been inconsistent compared to the high-pressure environment of the Premier League, leading some to believe he may need a loan spell to regain confidence.
* The Kelleher Factor: Since joining Brentford for roughly £18 million, Kelleher has been a revelation. His stats—including a 75%+ save percentage—have made Liverpool’s decision to let him go look increasingly premature.
The “One Condition”: Guaranteed No. 1
According to recent reports and Kelleher’s own career trajectory, the “one condition” isn’t about money—it’s about the starting whistle.
Kelleher has spent a decade being the “world’s best number two.” At 27, he has tasted life as a regular starter and has no intention of returning to the shadows. For a deal to happen, Kelleher reportedly demands:
* Direct Succession: He will only return if he is the designated No. 1. This would require Liverpool to either sell Alisson or relegate the Brazilian to a secondary role (an unlikely scenario given Alisson’s stature).
* Long-term Commitment: A contract that establishes him as the face of the post-Arne Slot transition, rather than a “stop-gap” until Mamardashvili finds his feet.
The Verdict: Will it Happen?
While the emotional pull of Anfield is strong—Kelleher recently spoke about his deep connection to the club and his defense of his former teammates during a difficult 2025/26 season—a return is a massive “if.”
> “For me to leave and play first-team football was obviously right… I stay in touch with the guys, I have a lot of good friends there.” — Caoimhin Kelleher, February 2026.
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If Liverpool can convince Alisson that it’s time for a new challenge in Italy or elsewhere, the path for Kelleher’s “Prodigal Son” return becomes clear. If not, the Irishman will likely continue his ascent elsewhere, leaving Liverpool to wonder “what if.”
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