Celtic's interest in Caoimhim Kelleher has reportedly forced Liverpool to make alternative transfer plans.

The Premier League giants are believed to be making contingency plans in case they lose the Republic of Ireland goalkeeper to Celtic this summer.

Brendan Rodgers is a long-term admirer of the 25-year-old and views him as an ideal replacement for Joe Hart between the sticks.

A move in the summer is more likely than this month.

However, The Sun reports that Jurgen Klopp is already looking at alternative options for back-up keepers to avoid his side being left short.

Kelleher has only made seven appearances for the Reds and is being kept at the club mainly for cup competitions and Europa League fixtures.

Celtic have previously had an approach rejected by the Merseyside outfit but will look to test the water again this year.

The keeper is believed to be keen on a permanent move away from Anfield as he looks to become a first-choice elsewhere.

Liverpool needs to find a back-up to No.1 Allison first, though. And it would appear that Sunderland’s Anthony Patterson could be their top target for that role.

He fits the home-grown bill - a rule which does reduce the list of potential options.

READ MORE: Celtic critics urged to lay off 'unique' talent Johnston

Meanwhile, critics of Mikey Johnston have been urged to lay off the Celtic attacker.

Stephen Kenny insists the 24-year-old is a 'unique' talent and should be more appreciated by supporters of the champions.

Having made his debut way back in 2017, during Brendan Rodgers' first spell in charge, the Republic of Ireland international has struggled to become a first-team regular.

He has been blighted with injury issues over the years but has very much been a bit-part player under Rodgers, Ange Postecoglou and Neil Lennon.

Johnston spent last season in Portugal after he joined Vitoria Guimaraes on loan.