Liverpool have placed a £20m valuation on Caoimhín Kelleher, meaning Celtic will be priced out of a permanent move for the Irishman. The 25-year old has been listed as a target for the Scottish Champions as Brendan Rodgers in the summer.

Liverpool’s Irish goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher catches the ball during the FA Cup third round football match between Wolves and Liverpool FC at Molineux on January 17, 2023. (Photo by OLI SCARFF/AFP via Getty Images)

According to the Daily Express, the valuation means that Celtic will have to look elsewhere for a replacement for Joe Hart.

The Englishman bowed out of professional football with Celtic winning a Double. The former Man City stopper provided quality on the pitch and class off of it, meaning he will leave a substantial void to be filled. Kelleher was one of the players that was tipped to succeed Super Joe; however, it appears that his valuation will scupper any deal.

Republic of Ireland’s goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher punches the ball clear during the UEFA match between Republic of Ireland and Scotland at Aviva stadium in Dublin on June 11, 2022. ((Photo by PAUL FAITH/AFP via Getty Images)

There had been increased speculation that the player would move on this summer with Liverpool’s scouts look at bringing in a replacement for Kelleher to work as understudy to Allison Becker. However, the Brazilian is attracting interest from Saudi Arabia and could be tempted by their riches.

Kelleher’s brother played in Celtic’s Academy and repots have suggested that he would be keen on a move. The big ‘keeper has 26 appearances for Liverpool this season propelling him back into the national team’s starting XI.

Kelleher could push for a loan deal but Liverpool boss Arne Slot will likely want to capitalise on his impressive season by selling him on as he faces a large rebuild following Jurgen Klopp’s departure.