Middlesbrough were hoping to take Ben Doak on loan once again this year but he is set for a permanent move elsewhere, reports The Northern Echo.
Middlesbrough looked to have pulled off one of the coups of the summer window when they secured Ben Doak’s services on loan from Liverpool. The Scot was of interest to several sides but Boro won the race back in August.
Doak had a fine start on Teesside and was a real threat to Championship backlines. Unfortunately for him, he saw his season curtailed by injury for the majority of 2025, meaning his last Boro appearance was on January 25th.
Boro - Middlesbrough loan ace Ben Doak
Image courtesy of: ANDREW BOYERS/REUTERS.
After Doak had his development halted this year, Middlesbrough were hoping to secure his services once again this summer. The Northern Echo have reported that Boro have been keen and believe they’d be at the front of the queue should he leave on loan.
However, unfortunately for the Teesside outfit, Liverpool are looking to sell Doak this summer on a permanent basis. Premier League sides Crystal Palace and Everton have already been credited with interest.
Liverpool could be set to net a fee of around £30m for the former Celtic youngster. This will all but end Middlesbrough’s chances of his return this summer.
Is a permanent move right for him?
There is no doubt that Doak is a very talented young player with a lot of potential. But as of right now, would he be ready to make the permanent step up to the Premier League?
It would be a big step for the Scottish International after only half a season in the Championship this year. Especially after a long-term injury that has hampered him this season, perhaps a loan to Middlesbrough could be more beneficial.
ADVERTISEMENT
Boro - Middlesbrough winger Ben Doak and WBA - West Brom man Torbjorn Heggem
Image courtesy of: PAUL CHILDS/REUTERS.
Doak was very impressive in his 24 games as a Boro player. He managed three goals and seven assists in the Championship, averaging a 7.1 match rating (FotMob).
Where do Boro go now?
Middlesbrough will have plenty to work with this summer, but they have another big job on their hands this window. Another season like last year is something they cannot afford to happen.
A right-winger will certainly be on the agenda, with just Morgan Whittaker as a natural option out there right now. Even Whittaker has barely featured on the right wing in his short time at Boro, being deployed as an attacking midfielder on a regular basis.
ADVERTISEMENT
There could be some very interesting targets coming Boro fans’ way this summer, but Doak is unlikely to remain on the list amid new developments.