Liverpool set £25m price as Premier League clubs track young talent | OneFootball

Premier League Trio Monitor Ben Doak as Liverpool Weigh Options

Talented winger draws transfer interest

Ben Doak’s raw ability and direct playing style have captured the imagination of many Liverpool fans, but the 19-year-old’s future remains up in the air this summer. As reported by The Daily Mail, Everton, Crystal Palace and Bournemouth have all expressed interest in the Scottish winger, though none have met Liverpool’s £25 million-plus asking price.

Photo: IMAGO

Doak’s fearless approach and willingness to run at defenders have made him a standout talent among the Reds’ younger ranks. “I love watching Doak. Direct, fast, fearless. Maybe he needs to improve his end product but he is 19 and, likewise, there are worries about his injury record,” said journalist Lewis Steele.

That combination of excitement and fragility presents Liverpool with a tricky decision — one that has no obvious answer.

Key decisions facing Slot and Hughes

Arne Slot, together with Sporting Director Richard Hughes, now face a pivotal call. Doak can be retained as a squad option, potentially as sixth-choice in the forward pecking order. But with limited game time on offer, that scenario may hinder his development more than help it.

Photo: IMAGO

Another route would be to loan him to a Championship or lower Premier League side, with regular minutes being a vital ingredient for his continued progression.

“Personally I would loan him out unless a huge bid comes in, with a buyback clause,” added Steele. That view is likely shared within Kirkby, where staff remain excited about Doak’s ceiling but understand his growth must be nurtured responsibly.

Injury setbacks and end product under scrutiny

There’s no doubt Doak has the traits to succeed at the top level, but his lack of a consistent final ball and a frustrating injury record have kept his progress in check. These are not insurmountable challenges, but they raise questions about his short-term value to a Liverpool squad that is pushing for trophies on multiple fronts.

Photo: @LFC

The price tag reflects Liverpool’s belief in his potential, though the club would almost certainly consider structured offers that include buyback clauses or performance-based incentives.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a supporter’s standpoint, the potential departure of Ben Doak — even on loan — provokes mixed emotions. On the one hand, it’s clear the lad has something about him. That spark. That electricity. When he picks up the ball and drives at defenders, it feels like anything can happen.

But let’s be honest, he is still very much a work in progress. The lack of end product has been noticeable, and his time in the treatment room has disrupted any sort of rhythm. In a side chasing major silverware under Slot, minutes are going to be hard to come by.

A loan move feels like the most logical step. Ideally to a bottom-half Premier League side where he will play regularly, take knocks, make mistakes, and learn fast. What we absolutely do not want is to lose him permanently. Not now. Not without some form of control in the deal.

If someone does come in with a big-money offer and Liverpool are tempted, a buyback clause should be non-negotiable. There is a player in there. Let him flourish elsewhere if needed, but make sure the door is left open to bring him back if he hits his stride.

Let’s not make the mistake of giving up on talent too soon.