Ben Doak’s Liverpool Future in Doubt Amid Premier League Interest
Ben Doak has long been considered one of Liverpool’s brightest young prospects, but his Anfield future looks increasingly uncertain as the summer transfer window edges closer to its conclusion. Speaking to Dave Davis on Anfield Index, journalist Lewis Steele gave a telling insight into Doak’s situation, suggesting the 19-year-old could be set for a move away.
“It does seem like he is heading for the exit,” Steele confirmed. “Liverpool wanted around £25-30m in January when Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace came in with around £18m.” With that level of interest, it is clear the winger’s stock remains high despite his limited game time at the club.
Limited Opportunities Under Slot
Arne Slot’s first season at the helm brought long-awaited success as Liverpool lifted the Premier League title, but the team’s attacking options have thinned dramatically since. The tragic passing of Diogo Jota and the departures of Luis Díaz and Darwin Núñez have left Liverpool short up front, with many expecting Doak to feature more prominently this season.
Yet there appears to be no guarantee of regular minutes for the Scot. Steele notes, “Maybes they try to sell him and include a buy-back clause but since Liverpool don’t have too many forwards at the club, he could stay in and around the squad for the next year.” This uncertainty has opened the door for potential suitors to test Liverpool’s resolve once again.
Premier League Clubs Lining Up
According to Steele, multiple clubs remain interested in securing Doak’s services, and not just those traditionally associated with mid-table ambition. “There’s a number of Premier League clubs keen on him and there is a very good player in there. The only slight worry is his injury record.”
That last point could be crucial. Doak has struggled with fitness, and while his pace and technical ability are undeniable, clubs may view him as a long-term project rather than an instant impact player. Even Everton had reportedly shown interest at one stage, though “I haven’t heard anything about that lately,” added Steele.
Next Steps for Liverpool and Doak
With Liverpool’s attack lacking depth and Doak’s potential still very much intact, a sale would appear to make little immediate sense unless a buy-back clause is included. It would be a pragmatic solution, protecting the club’s long-term interests while allowing Doak the minutes he needs to develop elsewhere.
For now, the player remains part of the squad, and Steele was clear in his closing thoughts: “Let’s see what happens in the next week or so. He’s a good player and if Liverpool were to sell him, then they would get a good fee.”
The next few days could prove pivotal in deciding whether Doak stays to fight for his place under Slot, or Liverpool cash in on one of their most promising youth prospects while interest is high.