Key Points
• Newcastle United are likely targeting two Liverpool players, Caoimhin Kelleher and Andy Robertson, after their Carabao Cup win.
• Research suggests Kelleher, a goalkeeper, is a prime target due to his contract situation, with one year left and no extension planned.
• It seems likely Robertson, a left-back, is also in focus, given his recent form dip and contract expiring in June 2026.
• The evidence leans toward Newcastle aiming to strengthen their squad, with transfer fees potentially around £20m for Kelleher and £15m for Robertson.
Background
Newcastle United, fresh off their Carabao Cup victory, are pushing to bolster their squad for a top-six Premier League finish and Champions League qualification. Their interest in Liverpool players follows a season where they’ve shown ambition, backed by their ownership’s financial support.
Player Details
Caoimhin Kelleher, Liverpool’s backup goalkeeper, has impressed with 10 clean sheets in 20 appearances this season. Andy Robertson, a veteran left-back, has faced criticism for declining form, especially at 31, making him a potential transfer target.
Transfer Context
Both players’ situations—Kelleher’s short contract and Robertson’s age—make them viable targets. Competition from clubs like Chelsea for Kelleher adds complexity, while Liverpool may look to replace Robertson with younger options like Fulham’s Antonee Robinson.
Detailed Analysis
Newcastle United’s ambition to raid Liverpool for two key players following their Carabao Cup triumph has sent ripples through the transfer market, with the Magpies eyeing a double swoop that could reshape both clubs’ futures. This move, reported in early 2025, comes as Newcastle, under Eddie Howe, look to build on their recent success and challenge for higher honors in the Premier League. Their victory over Liverpool in the Carabao Cup final has seemingly fueled their confidence, with transfer strategy now focused on strengthening critical positions, particularly in goal and defense, to secure a coveted Champions League spot.
The first target, Caoimhin Kelleher, is Liverpool’s Republic of Ireland international goalkeeper, currently serving as a deputy to Alisson Becker. At 26, Kelleher has proven his worth with 20 appearances this season, boasting an impressive 10 clean sheets and a save percentage that has caught the eye of several clubs. According to recent reports, his contract, set to expire in June 2026, is unlikely to be extended, with the player reportedly unwilling to sign a new deal Football Insider. This situation makes him an attractive prospect for Newcastle, who see him as a long-term replacement for their current goalkeeping options, especially given his proven Premier League quality.
The second player on Newcastle’s radar is Andy Robertson, Liverpool’s veteran left-back and a cornerstone of their recent successes under Jurgen Klopp. Now 31, the Scotsman has faced increasing scrutiny for a dip in form, particularly evident in the first half of the 2024-25 season. Reports suggest his performances, including struggles in the Carabao Cup final loss to Newcastle, have raised questions about his future at Anfield The Athletic. With his contract running until June 2026, Liverpool may consider cashing in this summer, and Newcastle are keen to add his experience, crossing ability, and leadership to their squad, especially as they look to deepen their defensive options.
For Liverpool, the potential loss of both Kelleher and Robertson could disrupt their squad depth, particularly under new manager Arne Slot, who has led the Reds to the top of the Premier League table in the 2024-25 season. Kelleher’s departure would force Liverpool to seek a new backup goalkeeper, while Robertson’s exit could accelerate plans for a younger left-back, with rumors linking them to Fulham’s Antonee Robinson Liverpool.com. This move could be part of a broader squad refresh, given the age profile of both players and the club’s focus on long-term sustainability.
Transfer fees for these potential deals are expected to be significant, adding another layer of complexity. Kelleher, given his contract situation and performances, might command a fee around £20m, while Robertson’s valuation could reach £15m, considering his age and recent form. However, competition is fierce, with Chelsea also linked to Kelleher, potentially driving up his price Football Insider, and other clubs monitoring Robertson’s situation, which could complicate negotiations.
Fan reactions have been mixed, with Newcastle supporters excited at the prospect of raiding their rivals, while Liverpool fans express concern on social media. One X post from a Reds supporter read, “Not Kelleher and Robbo too—Newcastle are getting greedy!” (@LFCFanPage), highlighting the emotional stakes for both fanbases. The buzz around these potential transfers has dominated football discourse, with pundits debating the implications for both clubs’ ambitions.
The table below summarizes the key details of the potential transfers:
PlayerPositionAgeContract ExpiryPotential FeeNotesCaoimhin KelleherGoalkeeper26June 2026~£20mBackup to Alisson, 10 clean sheets this seasonAndy RobertsonLeft-back31June 2026~£15mRecent form dip, veteran leadershipAs the summer transfer window approaches, the stakes are high for both clubs. For Newcastle, securing Kelleher and Robertson could define their project, providing the depth and quality needed to compete at the highest level. For Liverpool, retaining these players or finding suitable replacements will be crucial to maintaining their title challenge. The outcome of these negotiations remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: this transfer saga could reshape the Premier League landscape in the 2025-26 season.
Key Citations
• Football Insider exclusive Newcastle Chelsea join race for Liverpool star in summer transfer
• The Athletic Liverpool must start planning for a future without Andy Robertson
• Liverpool.com Liverpool transfer news as Andy Robertson replacement eyed amid triple contract update
