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“I love Leeds but rejected their offer because….”- Kelleher explains why he ignored Leeds United interest to join Brentford from Liverpool
Caoimhin Kelleher Joins Brentford from Liverpool and Explains Why He Snubbed Leeds
Caoimhin Kelleher has officially joined Brentford from Liverpool in a transfer worth up to £18 million, despite earlier links to newly promoted Leeds United.
The Irish goalkeeper decided it was time to move on from his role as Alisson Becker’s understudy at Anfield, seeking regular first-team football elsewhere.
While Leeds had shown interest, Brentford acted swiftly over the weekend to secure the 25-year-old’s signature. The move follows Mark Flekken’s imminent transfer to Bayer Leverkusen, leaving Thomas Frank’s side in need of a new No.1. Brentford’s strong working relationship with Liverpool may have helped smooth the deal.
Although the final package could rise to £18 million, Brentford initially paid just £12.5 million — a fee many Leeds supporters considered a steal. Now, Kelleher has spoken out about why he chose the West London club.
Kelleher: Brentford “Felt Like the Right Fit”
With Leeds back in the Premier League, expectations were high that the club would be able to attract higher-profile players. However, the widening gulf between the Championship and the top flight — and the trend of newly promoted clubs being relegated quickly — may have played a role in Kelleher’s decision.
While he didn’t cite that directly, Kelleher emphasized the impression Brentford made on him during initial talks.
“I came down to meet the manager and some of the coaches. They explained why they wanted me here and showed me around the training ground,” he told Brentford’s official site. “It was interesting to hear their perspective on how they could develop my game. It really impressed me, and I felt the club was a great fit.”
Where Do Leeds Turn Now?
With Kelleher off the table, Leeds are weighing up alternative options between the posts. One potential target is Newcastle’s Nick Pope, although any move depends on the Magpies completing a deal for Burnley’s James Trafford.
Another name in the mix is Sam Johnstone, who is reportedly open to a switch to Elland Road. Wolves are said to be asking around £8 million for the West Brom academy graduate, but it’s unclear whether Leeds will move forward with that option.
Additionally, LeedsUnited.News has reported interest in Brazilian keeper Gabriel Brazao, who has been in excellent form for Santos since leaving Inter Milan earlier this year.
