Paul Joyce: Everton Eyeing £25million Move to Sign Liverpool Star | OneFootball

Everton Eyeing Shock Move to Sign £25million Liverpool Star

As reported by Paul Joyce in The Times, Everton are laying the groundwork for an ambitious summer transfer window, with their sights set firmly on two of English football’s most intriguing young attacking prospects – Ben Doak of Liverpool and Liam Delap of Ipswich Town.

This strategic shift comes at a critical time for the Toffees, who are keen to rejuvenate their forward line with pace, flair and long-term potential. It also reflects a willingness to spend decisively, with both targets carrying significant price tags: Doak is valued by Liverpool at around £25million to £30million, while Delap’s release clause stands at £30million.

Doak’s Rising Stock After Championship Spell

Ben Doak’s 2023-24 campaign might have ended prematurely due to injury, but his stock has never been higher. The 19-year-old Scot enjoyed a fruitful loan spell at Middlesbrough, contributing three goals and seven assists across 24 appearances. His explosive pace, fearless dribbling and direct approach have caught the attention of several Premier League clubs.

According to The Times, “Everton have also discussed a move for Doak, although Liverpool are believed to be seeking about £25million to £30million for the 19-year-old Scotland attacker, who was the subject of a failed bid from Crystal Palace in January.”

Photo: IMAGO

Doak was originally signed from Celtic in March 2022 for a modest £600,000 fee and has since made ten senior appearances for Liverpool. The fact that the Anfield club are now willing to entertain offers, albeit at a high price, suggests a potential opportunity for a rival club bold enough to invest in raw, high-upside talent.

Delap Discussions Signal Everton’s Intent

Parallel to the Doak interest, Everton have reportedly held talks with Liam Delap, another name on their summer shortlist.

Everton are said to be seriously exploring the option of triggering his £30million release clause. Delap offers a different profile to Doak – a robust, physical forward who thrives in tight spaces and has Premier League pedigree.

Given Dominic Calvert-Lewin’s injury struggles and potential departure, Delap could represent a smart long-term replacement and signal a refreshed attacking identity under Sean Dyche or whoever oversees the club’s technical direction moving forward.

Rivalries Renewed on Merseyside?

Should Everton pursue both targets successfully, it could mark the beginning of a bold new chapter. While their Merseyside neighbours are reigning Premier League champions under Arne Slot, Everton’s focus appears to be on building sustainable success through smart youth recruitment.

Of course, prising Doak away from Anfield is easier said than done. Liverpool have long-term faith in the teenager, and his time at Middlesbrough showed flashes of what he could become in the right system. But as one Anfield insider noted, “every player has their price, especially when competition for places is fierce.”

Photo: IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool perspective, Everton’s interest in Ben Doak is eyebrow-raising. The teenager has long been seen as a key part of the club’s future, particularly under Arne Slot, whose attacking system suits Doak’s aggressive running and high tempo.

The idea of selling to Everton will make many fans uneasy, not simply because of the local rivalry, but because Doak’s ceiling is clearly high. His time at Middlesbrough showcased his ability to affect games at senior level, and the stats back it up – three goals and seven assists in just 24 appearances in a competitive league.

Yet, if Liverpool are genuinely open to letting him go for £25million to £30million, it suggests the coaching staff may have other plans or have identified areas where Doak still falls short. With the squad already stacked with forward options and more experienced wingers returning from injury or loan, competition is fierce.

Still, allowing such a talent to move across Stanley Park could be one of those decisions the club regrets in two or three years. Everton, for all their inconsistency, are building something quietly impressive. If they pair Doak with Delap and develop both properly, Liverpool fans might find themselves watching a pair of former City and Anfield starlets shine elsewhere.

For now, the move seems speculative – but this is one to watch.