Liverpool have reportedly decided how they will handle the future of goalkeeper Caoimhim Kelleher.
A recent injury to first-choice stopper Alisson Becker means that the Republic of Ireland international is in line for a run of appearances in the starting lineup.
However, that has not always been a regular occurrence for the 25-year-old, who has been understudy to the Brazilian ever since first breaking into the senior setup.
There may have been a time when Kelleher would have been delighted to have made 49 outings for Liverpool in all competitions.
Instead, he has impressed to such an extent where he is regarded by some as the best backup option between the sticks in the Premier League.
That is largely a consequence of his performances in two EFL Cup finals against Chelsea, Kelleher keeping a clean sheet on both occasions in Liverpool victories.
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Kelleher transfer decision made?
Nevertheless, it is no secret that Kelleher is ready to push for an exit from Anfield in order to progress his career, with there being no prospect of becoming number one for the foreseeable future.
Kelleher has publicly revealed his stance on the matter, while head coach Arne Slot has accepted that it is 'normal' for the academy graduate to be desperate for more starts.
According to Football Insider, Liverpool and Slot have already made the decision that Kelleher will be available for transfer during the summer window.
With Kelleher's contract due to expire in 2026, the Merseyside giants effectively have little choice if they wish to recoup a substantial fee for his signature.
There had been talk of Liverpool demanding in the region of £20m during the off-season, a figure that may need to be re-evaluated given that any admirers are aware of how long is left on his deal.
Furthermore, Liverpool have already agreed terms for Valencia goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili to sign for the club ahead of 2025-26.
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Kelleher's short-term focus
With Alisson unavailable until November, Kelleher must instead focus on again performing as an able deputy courtesy of the games that Liverpool have in front of them.
First up is a Premier League showdown at home to Chelsea on October 20, prior to visits to RB Leipzig and Arsenal across the following seven days.
Third-choice Vitezslav Jaros could be in line for an outing in the EFL Cup fourth round against Brighton & Hove Albion having made his debut as a substitute versus Crystal Palace before the international break.
Darren Plant
