Liverpool Youngster Ben Doak Draws Premier League Interest
Liverpool’s 19-year-old forward Ben Doak is capturing attention across the Premier League, and his future at Anfield is increasingly uncertain. After a promising loan spell at Middlesbrough last season, his early-season appearances for the Reds have been limited, raising questions over whether a move this summer could benefit both player and club. Credit for the original reporting goes to Empire of the Kop.
Limited Opportunities for a Rising Talent
Doak’s talent has been evident since joining Liverpool from Celtic for just £600,000 in 2022. The Scotland international impressed on loan at Middlesbrough, although his progress was hampered by injury. Over the past month, he has featured in a few pre-season matches and scored in the 4-1 win over Athletic Bilbao at Anfield. However, he remained an unused substitute in the Community Shield, illustrating the challenge of competing with established stars like Mo Salah for a regular starting role.
Premier League Clubs Eyeing Doak
According to sources close to Empire of the Kop, Liverpool are open to a permanent exit for Doak this month, with such a move described as “increasingly likely.” Leeds are reportedly keen, valuing the winger at around £20 million as they look to strengthen their attack.
West Ham have also maintained interest, seeking pace and width for their forward line, while Nottingham Forest were impressed during his Middlesbrough loan. Previous suitors such as Everton and Wolves have cooled their interest, and Liverpool might even consider a swap deal involving Crystal Palace as part of negotiations.
While Monaco and Bologna are monitoring Doak, Liverpool appear to prefer a permanent transfer over another loan, reflecting the growing market for the youngster.
Financial and Developmental Sense
Selling Doak for £20 million would represent shrewd business from Liverpool. From a £600,000 initial investment, the potential profit margin is substantial, and it also provides the player with a platform to develop at a club where regular minutes are more realistic. Empire of the Kop note that “with little realistic prospect of Doak become a Liverpool regular, and with multiple top-flight clubs willing to pay a tidy fee for him, it makes pragmatic sense to take the money and allow him the opportunity to flourish elsewhere and get the game-time that his talents deserve.”
Liverpool supporters may feel a tinge of disappointment, given his promise and homegrown development, but pragmatism suggests that both club and player could benefit from a move this summer.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
The potential sale of Ben Doak feels frustrating, particularly after the optimism surrounding his pre-season form. As fans, it is hard not to imagine him competing alongside Salah and the remaining forwards, adding youthful energy to the squad. While the business rationale is clear, the emotional impact on the fanbase should not be underestimated.
Manager Arne Slot, fresh off a debut season that yielded the Premier League title, is now preparing for his second campaign in charge. His approach has emphasised tactical flexibility and squad rotation, and losing a young talent like Doak could reduce options in wide areas.
Ultimately, the move would underline Liverpool’s pragmatic transfer strategy, prioritising financial prudence and player development. However, for many fans, it feels like another young talent is being pushed out before having the chance to make a lasting mark at Anfield. The club must balance nurturing prospects with maintaining competitiveness in the Premier League, and this sale could set a precedent for other academy graduates.
