'Exceptional' Liverpool player who has three years left on his deal 'could leave the club this summer'

Liverpool are at risk of losing one of their brightest young players this summer, it has been claimed.

Liverpool will look to bring in several new players when the window opens, with their midfield in particular need of reinforcements.

There are also set to be a number of departures this summer, with Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Adrian expected to leave on free transfers.

But the Reds are also at risk of losing one player they are unlikely to want to part ways with - back-up goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher.

The Republic of Ireland international has impressed whenever he has been called upon by Jurgen Klopp, primarily in the domestic cup competitions.

Klopp has previously described the 24-year-old as an "exceptional" player and the world's best second-choice goalkeeper.

"Alisson is the best goalkeeper in the world, he is insane as a goalkeeper," Klopp said last season after Kelleher helped Liverpool beat Chelsea on penalties in the Carabao Cup final.

"But Caoimhin Kelleher is the best No 2 in the world, especially for the game we play."

Could Kelleher leave Liverpool?

The Athletic's James Pearce says Kelleher could seek a move away from Liverpool this summer in search of regular first-team football.

When asked if Liverpool were planning to sell any of their big-name players this summer to fund a rebuild, Pearce said: "Unless one of those big players says he wants to leave or there's a crazy offer, I can't see it.

"No one will be forced out. That's not the way Klopp operates.

"I don't think Liverpool will be able to raise much in terms of sales this summer unless something comes out of the blue. Caoimhin Kelleher could leave if he’s offered the chance to be a No 1 elsewhere and I reckon he's worth £20m.

"Then you've got Nat Phillips who will probably go for around £8m. However, as stated above, Liverpool will be creating a lot of space on the wage bill given the earnings of those who are about to become free agents."

What has Kelleher said?

Kelleher has previously spoken of his desire to play more football, having so far managed only 20 senior appearances for Liverpool.

"Obviously when I get my chance I need to take it," he told the Liverpool Echo in December.

"That is all I am focusing on really. I just need to be ready so I can step in if there's an injury or if I'm needed.

"I am quite relaxed, so I don't mind watching, but obviously I'd rather be playing but I just try to be as focused as I can be when I watch so I am ready if I am needed.

"Listen, I think we've obviously only just come back into the middle of the season. So we'll just see what the season brings and then after that we'll see, we'll see what happens after that. But I think at the moment, for now, I just have to be focused on trying to be ready for Liverpool."