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Liverpool winger Ben Doak is facing a likely transfer this summer amid significant interest from several Premier League clubs, including Leeds United, West Ham, and Nottingham Forest. The 19-year-old Scottish forward, praised for his pace and direct running, has impressed in sporadic appearances and a recent loan spell at Middlesbrough, where he contributed 10 goal involvements in 24 games. However, breaking into Liverpool’s first team remains challenging due to the presence of established stars like Mo Salah on the right flank.
Reports suggest Liverpool could be tempted by offers around £25 million for Doak, following a pattern in recent years where the club has sold promising youngsters who struggle to secure regular first-team football. Previous examples include Rhian Brewster, Sepp van den Berg, and Fabio Carvalho, collectively yielding impressive transfer sums. Liverpool's strategy with these young talents often involves cashing in to reinvest or avoid stagnation for the players.
Interest in Doak has reportedly been widespread, with Leeds, West Ham, and Nottingham Forest among the suitors. Forest's participation in European football via the Europa League makes them an attractive destination for the player to gain higher-level experience. Although Doak’s raw talent and potential remain evident, Liverpool might decide that a move away to secure regular competitive minutes is in both parties’ best interests, provided there are buy-back clauses to retain future options.
Fans and pundits debate the wisdom of selling local youngsters like Doak and Harvey Elliott, emphasizing the value of homegrown talent who understand the club ethos and development pathway. Nonetheless, the club’s transfer approach historically balances financial prudence with player growth opportunities, often prioritizing the latter when a player’s path to the first team is blocked.
Ultimately, Liverpool’s decision will hinge on pre-season performances, bids tied to the closing of the transfer window, and Doak's own aspirations to either fight for a place at Anfield or continue his development elsewhere. The club’s track record suggests a sale with a buy-back clause is the most probable outcome if a suitable offer materializes.
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