Caoimhin Kelleher (foto: Getty Images)
Liverpool legend John Aldridge urged Caoimhin Kelleher to reject Chelsea and admitted he would welcome Jurgen Klopp back to Anfield if Arne Slot leaves.
Liverpool legend John Aldridge urged Caoimhin Kelleher to stay away from a possible move to Chelsea, while also admitting he still dreams of seeing Jurgen Klopp return to Anfield one day.
Speaking about the goalkeeper’s career path, Aldridge praised the Irish international and admitted he was surprised when Liverpool allowed him to leave for Brentford for around £15 million.
"Caoimhin Kelleher is a great goalkeeper. The fans loved him, and he never did anything wrong," Aldridge said.
"The one thing that shocked me was the price. I thought he would be a £40 million player."
The former Liverpool striker even expressed hope the club inserted a clause that could allow the goalkeeper to return in the future.
"I'm hoping there is something in the deal so when Liverpool come back for him one day we could bring him back for that same price after he gains experience."
Reports have linked Kelleher with a potential move to Chelsea, who continue to face uncertainty in the goalkeeping position. Aldridge, however, strongly warned against such a transfer.
"Chelsea? He can't go there. He has already learned so much at Liverpool, and now he is continuing that journey with a team that is doing well."
The former striker also pointed out that Kelleher still has time on his side.
"He is still young for a goalkeeper, and he could easily play for a big club later in his career."
Aldridge also spoke about the managerial situation at Liverpool. Despite supporting current coach Arne Slot, he admitted many fans would welcome Jurgen Klopp back if the opportunity ever appeared.
"Of course we would love him back if Arne Slot ever left. What Klopp did for Liverpool and the passion he brought to the club was similar to what Bill Shankly created."
Klopp left Liverpool in 2024 after a remarkable nine-year spell in which he won multiple major trophies, including the Premier League and the Champions League.
Aldridge will soon meet the German coach again during a charity match at Anfield, where the pair will reunite with several former players.
He even joked about the possibility of facing Klopp in the future.
"Good luck to him wherever he goes. If he faces Liverpool in the Champions League one day, I just hope he plays his reserve team."