Everton wants to sign Liverpool winger Ben Doak this summer, according to Sky Sports.
The teenager has made an impressive start to his career and has attracted interest from several Premier League clubs already, with Crystal Palace and Ipswich Town reportedly having approaches turned down in January for the Scotland international.
But Everton could be Doak’s new landing spot in what would be a controversial transfer. Reports have previously suggested the 19-year-old is a “prime target” for David Moyes, but the Telegraph stated two weeks ago that Everton’s £30 million ($41M) asking price could prove to be a sticking point for the Toffees.
Doak spent the 2024/25 season on loan at Middlesbrough, impressing under Michael Carrick’s stewardship. The winger made 24 appearances and provided 10 goal involvements during his stint at the Riverside.
However, that was cut short due to injury, with Doak not featuring for Middlesbrough after January. The team’s form suffered as a result, with Boro slipping from fifth before the setback to a ninth-place finish.
"It was a loan move that proved successful in both ways,” Carrick said at the end of the season. "Obviously, it’s unfortunate in the way it got cut short, particularly at the time it did and for how long.
"Ben had a big impact for us, and I think he’s benefited from being with us personally as well, which also helps Liverpool. I think everything felt the benefit of that move."
Ben Doak of Middlesbrough
Doak's future at Liverpool looks uncertain. (Image: Getty Images)
Doak played for Liverpool in last summer’s pre-season tour of America but Arne Slot felt a loan move was best for his development. The ex-Celtic protege has played 10 senior games for Liverpool, all under Jurgen Klopp.
Should Doak join Everton, he would be the first player since 1992 to move directly from Liverpool to its local rivals. He would also be involved in the team’s first season at the new Hill Dickson Stadium.
Following the Friedkin Group’s takeover in December, Everton is expecting a busy summer. Up to eight first-team players, including Dominic Calvert-Lewin, Idrissa Gueye, and Seamus Coleman, could leave for free when their contracts expire at the end of June.
Four loanees are set to return to their parent clubs as Everton reshapes its squad at the start of a new era for the club.
As for Doak, he will likely find his options limited at Liverpool in his preferred position, cutting in off the right flank. Mohamed Salah’s extension and the arrival of Jeremie Frimpong mean he could struggle to earn minutes in the team.