Goalkeeping has become one of Hansi Flick’s main priorities at Barcelona following Marc-AndrΓ© ter Stegen’s serious injury, which will keep him out until next season. This injury has led the club to rely on IΓ±aki PeΓ±a, who has performed well in Ter Stegen’s absence.
According to Spanish newspaper El Nacional, Flick believes the team needs a more experienced and dependable goalkeeper for next season’s challenges. One name he has suggested, with the backing of Deco, is Caoimhin Kelleher of Liverpool.
Although Kelleher, 26, is currently a backup to Alisson Becker, he has seized the opportunity to play regularly this season due to Alisson’s injury. His solid performances, quick reflexes, and ability to play with his feet have caught the attention of top clubs, including Barcelona.
With Liverpool signing Giorgi Mamardashvili for next season, Kelleherβs first-team prospects at Anfield are slim, making him likely to seek a move in search of more playing time. Flick sees this as a potential opportunity for Barcelona to strengthen their squad.
While PeΓ±a has done well as the number one goalkeeper, Barcelona understands the importance of having a world-class goalkeeper to compete at the highest level. Flick values Kelleherβs ability to play out from the back, a skill crucial to Barcelonaβs style.
With Ter Stegenβs recovery uncertain due to ongoing physical issues, Barcelona may need to rely on Kelleher as a high-quality backup if Ter Stegen struggles to return to his best form. Given the clubβs financial constraints, Barcelona will aim to negotiate a favorable deal with Liverpool for Kelleher, making him a key target for next summerβs transfer market.
