Manchester City may look to kickstart a squad overhaul by targeting a surprising signing from rivals Liverpool ahead of the 2025/26 Premier League season.
Despite dominating the Premier League with four consecutive titles, City are now struggling to secure Champions League qualification for next year. With club icon Kevin De Bruyne on his way out, Pep Guardiola is expected to reshape his squad this summer—possibly starting with a new goalkeeper.
Both Ederson and Stefan Ortega have shared goalkeeping duties this season but have struggled with consistency. In contrast, Liverpool boast a strong goalkeeping setup, with Alisson backed by Republic of Ireland international Caoimhin Kelleher, who featured 26 times in Alisson’s absence during the 2023/24 season.
Now 26, Kelleher is keen to become a first-choice keeper, and Manchester City has emerged as a possible next step in his career.
Former England, City, and Liverpool keeper David James has encouraged Guardiola to pursue Kelleher, citing his composure, trophy experience, and ability in high-pressure moments like penalty shootouts.
James noted that a move to City wouldn’t even require a major relocation and, despite the rarity of transfers between title contenders, suggested it could be mutually beneficial.
Kelleher, who scored the winning penalty in Liverpool’s 2022 League Cup triumph over Chelsea, has openly stated his desire for regular first-team action—a prospect that looks slim at Anfield, especially with Georgian goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili reportedly incoming.
“I’ve been clear over the last few years—I want to be a No.1 and play week in, week out,” Kelleher said. “The club’s decision to bring in another keeper suggests they’re going in a different direction.”
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