Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is a “long-time admirer” of Liverpool’s Caiomhin Kelleher and he is keen for the keeper to replace Joe Hart as the Hoops’ no.1, according to The Scottish Sun.

With Hart turning 37 in April and his contract expiring at the end of the season, the Scottish champions have been considering potential replacements.

Kelleher is seen as an ideal candidate, being the right age (25), and having a good amount of experience at the highest level under his belt.

The Republic of Ireland international has only made 32 senior appearances but he played a vital role in helping Liverpool win the Carabao Cup in 2022.

After starting the final and playing the full 120 minutes against Chelsea, he scored from 12 yards himself in the penalty shootout before his opposing number Kepa Arrizabalaga missed the key spot-kick.

Could Celtic sign Kelleher this month?

The Scottish Sun claim that a transfer in the summer is seen as “most likely” as Liverpool will need to find a replacement before they sanction a sale.

Considering Hart’s contract situation as well, his departure in June would present a perfect opportunity for an orderly changing of the guard in goal.

Kelleher has received praise from his current manager

Rodgers is not the only one who rates the Irishman highly. Speaking about the player at the end of last year when there was speculation about Kelleher’s future, Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp said he is an excellent keeper but he needs to find the right club where he can be the No.1:

“Caoimh is an outstanding goalie, he’s our goalie, that’s absolutely great. A club like us, with all the games we have, needs a goalie of his quality, definitely. But if we have something to talk about then I think it would make sense that we speak in between. It’s clear that he has the ambition to be a No. 1, but everything must be right. Being the No. 1 in the wrong club, all of a sudden you look like you’re not that good a goalie.”

Celtic will feel that they can offer Kelleher exactly what he needs. Of course, it will still be up to Liverpool whether they want to sanction the move.