Middlesbrough: Michael Carrick provides Ben Doak update amid Ipswich Town interest | OneFootball

Ben Doak has been the subject of intense transfer speculation this January

Michael Carrick is confident that Middlesbrough will be able to keep Ben Doak amid continued interest from Ipswich Town in the Liverpool loanee.

According to The Northern Echo, the Tractor Boys remain interested in the forward despite closing in on a deal to sign Jaden Philogene from Aston Villa.

Doak has earned a lot of praise this season since joining Middlesbrough on loan, where he has become an integral part of the first team squad.

The Scotland international has contributed two goals and six assists from 21 appearances in the Championship so far this term.

Ben Doak transfer latest

Carrick has provided an update on the situation surrounding Doak amid increasing transfer interest.

The Middlesbrough manager is relaxed about the speculation surrounding the player, and believes the youngster is unaffected by the transfer interest.

"He's absolutely fine, no problem, no difference," said Carrick, via The Northern Echo.

"He just gets on with his work as he has from day one. It suits him here.

“It's a good place to be, he's enjoying his football, he's learning, developing, having a great experience.

"I've got nothing but positive things to say about Ben.

"There's no denying some of it is out of our hands but I'm really calm and content.

“Hopefully it plays out and we're all happy and we still have Ben.

“We're in a good place and it's a good place for him."

Crystal Palace turn attention away from Ben Doak

It has been reported by Alan Nixon that Crystal Palace’s interest in Ben Doak has ended after the London club were priced out of a move.

The Eagles have reportedly turned their attention to Millwall’s Romaine Esse as they look to improve Oliver Glasner’s attacking options.

It is understood that Liverpool are holding out for up to £30 million for Doak.

Middlesbrough are fighting for promotion to the Premier League this season, so will be hoping to hold onto one of their key players beyond the 3 February deadline.

Keeping Ben Doak this January would be huge for Middlesbrough

Liverpool are reportedly very happy with the loan move for Doak, which is great for Boro and means they could even be in line to bring in other talented youngsters from the Reds in the future.

For now, keeping Doak will be huge for their promotion chances as the winger has become a standout talent in the Championship.

He has gone from strength to strength under Carrick, and this loan move has been fantastic for his development.