Liverpool’s SHOCK Swap: Premier League Star to Transform Reds? - Hesgoal

Liverpool are exploring the possibility of including Scottish winger Ben Doak as a makeweight to facilitate a deal for a key transfer target, according to recent reports. This approach could see the Anfield club utilize one of their promising youngsters to strengthen their squad in another key area.

Ben Doak, currently gaining valuable first-team experience on loan at Middlesbrough in the Championship, has impressed during his spell at the Riverside Stadium. Under the management of Michael Carrick, Doak has become a standout performer, contributing significantly to Middlesbrough’s push for a Championship play-off position this season.

Prior to a thigh injury sustained in January that required surgery, the 19-year-old showcased his attacking prowess for ‘Boro’, featuring in 23 league games and registering three goals and seven assists. His performances haven’t gone unnoticed, and Liverpool reportedly turned down bids from Premier League clubs, Ipswich Town and Crystal Palace, for the highly-rated winger earlier in the year.

Crystal Palace’s offer for Doak was believed to be around £16 million, while Ipswich Town’s approach was in the region of £15 million. However, these bids fell short of Liverpool’s valuation, who according to sources like The Times, value him closer to £30 million. More recently, The Sun reported an asking price of around £25 million for Doak, highlighting his growing reputation.

Interestingly, the same report from The Sun suggests that Liverpool are considering using Doak as a ‘bargaining chip’ in potential transfer negotiations. The players mentioned in connection with this strategy are Bournemouth duo Milos Kerkez and Antoine Semenyo, both of whom have been impressive performers for Andoni Iraola’s Bournemouth side this season. Liverpool are reportedly admirers of their qualities, and incorporating Doak into a deal could potentially lower the overall transfer fee for either player.

Milos Kerkez, in particular, has attracted significant interest from several Premier League clubs recently. Manchester City and Manchester United are also understood to be monitoring the situation and have reportedly contacted the player’s representatives. However, The i Paper reported in January that Kerkez would favour a move to Anfield over offers from the Manchester clubs, potentially giving Liverpool an advantage in the race for his signature.

Adding another layer to this potential transfer is the role of Liverpool’s new director of football, Richard Hughes. Hughes previously worked at Bournemouth and was reportedly instrumental in bringing Kerkez to the Vitality Stadium. His existing relationship with Kerkez could be a significant factor in the player’s decision-making process should Liverpool pursue their interest. Bournemouth are believed to value Kerkez, a Hungarian international with 32 appearances this season, at around £50 million.

Antoine Semenyo is also on Liverpool’s radar as they assess potential targets for the upcoming season, which will be Arne Slot’s second season in charge at Anfield. Whether Liverpool chooses to pursue Kerkez, Semenyo, or another target, the potential inclusion of Ben Doak as part of a transfer package is an intriguing development, showcasing the club’s strategic approach to squad building.