LIVERPOOL are open to receiving offers for Ben Doak this summer, dashing Middlesbrough’s ambitions of re-signing the winger on a second loan deal.
Doak spent last season on loan at the Riverside, and his stint with the Teessiders was a big success. The 19-year-old had a significant impact in the first half of the season, scoring three goals and providing seven assists as his direct running down the right side was a key component of Boro’s attacking threat.
His season was cut short when he sustained a thigh injury in late January, and while it was anticipated he would be able to return to duty before the conclusion of the season, he remained sidelined as Boro’s form plummeted, resulting in their failure to finish in the top six.
While Liverpool manager Arne Slot has talked highly of Doak’s growth on several occasions, the Scotland international was always going to struggle to break into the Premier League champions’ starting lineup on a regular basis next season.
As a result, Boro officials had hoped that Slot and the rest of the Anfield administration would be open to another Championship loan move next season. In such a case, the Teessiders would have positioned themselves at the head of the queue for Doak’s signature.
However, sources now believe Liverpool are willing to discuss a permanent deal for Doak this summer, ultimately ending Boro’s hopes of re-signing the winger on loan.
Everton are reportedly very interested in a deal for Doak, and while it would be incredibly unusual for a player to cross the Merseyside barrier, the Toffees are willing to spend around £30 million to sign the kid.
Crystal Palace have previously discussed Doak, and the Eagles are said to be intrigued. Palace may offer European football after qualifying for the Europa League, which could be an appealing option for Doak given their proven track record of developing young attackers.
Boro will continue to monitor the situation, but will almost definitely have to go elsewhere as they seek to bolster their wide-attacking ranks ahead of the start of the new season.
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