“I’d be Shocked” – Liverpool Expected to Sell £30m Forward in the Summer | OneFootball

Ben Doak: Liverpool’s Future Star or Summer Departure?

Liverpool’s Scottish winger, Ben Doak, has been making waves on loan at Middlesbrough, delivering performances that have sparked major debate. On the latest episode of Anfield Index’s Transfer Market Metrics, Dave Davis and Dr Phil Barter dissected his progress, his statistical impact, and his potential future under Arne Slot.

Championship Success but Premier League Doubts

Dr Phil Barter highlighted Doak’s impressive minutes in the Championship, stating:

“He has played nearly 1,800 minutes for Boro… and that’s a hard league. You’re basically playing twice a week up and down the country.”

While this volume of game time is invaluable for a developing player, Barts raised concerns over whether Doak’s rapid increase in minutes from last season—where he barely played—might take its toll.

“That’s a hell of a jump from 14 minutes the season before… that’s a massive volume for him to consume.”

Despite his performances, doubts persist over whether he can make the leap to Liverpool’s first team. The Premier League demands a different level of consistency and finishing ability, which could be problematic.

Photo: IMAGO

The Strengths of Ben Doak

From a statistical perspective, Doak is excelling in certain key areas.

“Progressive passes received – 99th percentile… they are finding him with the ball. And the magic is, he’s getting in that box.”

His ability to carry the ball up the pitch and take on defenders is elite.

“Take-ons – 71st percentile… that is what he does. Even in the limited appearances for Liverpool, he took players on for fun.”

However, there is a glaring issue in his attacking output.

Photo: IMAGO

The Big Problem: Lack of Shots

A forward at Liverpool needs to score goals, and Doak’s numbers do not reflect a player who is ready to contribute in that way.

“Non-penalty goals – 34th percentile. That’s low for someone in his position.”

Barts also pointed out that while Doak gets into good positions, his decision-making might not be ideal.

“He’s carrying it or receiving it, getting in the box, and then he’s looking to pass… not looking to take a shot on.”

For comparison, Liverpool’s current forwards are instructed to be more aggressive in front of goal.

“The big thing about Chiesa’s performance was he got his shots off… the forwards for Liverpool need to get high, get into the areas, and take a shot.”

Without this attacking output, Doak may struggle to break into Arne Slot’s plans.

Photo: IMAGO

Will Liverpool Cash In?

With reports of bids from Crystal Palace and Ipswich in January, Liverpool seem to have set their valuation. Davis summarised the situation:

“If there were bids in January for this player, this player is for sale… I would be shocked if he doesn’t leave the club in the summer for between £20m and £30m.”

Barter agreed, suggesting that Liverpool’s recruitment team would see this as a strong return on investment.

“You bought him for less than a million pounds, you flipped him for a £19m profit… you book that all day long.”

The reality is that while Doak is a talented young winger, Liverpool’s first-team attack is an elite unit.

“Liverpool’s first team and Liverpool’s attackers… you think of how strong that element is for us. It’s difficult to see Ben Doak being a Liverpool forward next season.”

Conclusion: Future at Anfield or a Summer Exit?

Ben Doak has the tools to be a Premier League player, but his current lack of goal output may hinder his Liverpool ambitions. His ability to progress the ball and take on defenders is exceptional, yet his reluctance to shoot is a major red flag.

Arne Slot will have a decision to make. Does he keep Doak as a squad player and develop his attacking output? Or does Liverpool capitalise on his rising stock and sell him for a substantial profit?

Either way, this summer could be decisive for the young Scot’s career.