James Pearce Shares Exit Update on “Exceptional” Liverpool Youngster as He Yearns for Regular Game-time in the 2024/25 Season
Liverpool may consider allowing one of their promising young talents to leave Anfield temporarily this summer.
James Pearce of The Athletic reports that Ben Doak is drawing interest from several Premier League teams, including newly promoted Leicester and Southampton.
The 18-year-old Scottish forward is eager for regular playing time in the 2024/25 season, following a challenging previous campaign marred by injuries.
Doak understands that his opportunities could be limited at Anfield, where he would likely play second fiddle to Mo Salah.
Both Arne Slot and Richard Hughes are aware of his situation and plan to explore options with him once Liverpool concludes their current U.S. tour.
Liverpool fans have long recognised Doak as an exceptional talent, as noted by Scotland under-21 manager Scot Gemmill. Given his injury-plagued 2023/24 season, his wish for regular game time is entirely reasonable.
Although the youngster has shown enough promise to be a valuable member of Liverpool’s squad for the upcoming season, displacing Salah on a regular basis is likely too ambitious at this time. This might explain his interest in seeking opportunities elsewhere.
Among the clubs mentioned in Pearce’s report, Southampton seem to be a more favourable destination for Doak if he is loaned out.
Their manager, Russell Martin, is known for his commitment to an attacking style of play, whereas competition for attacking positions at Leicester would be significantly tougher.
Should Liverpool decide to loan out Doak, it is crucial that he goes to a club where he will get consistent playing time.
His situation should not mirror that of Fabio Carvalho, who was loaned to RB Leipzig last summer but saw minimal playing time.
The remainder of the pre-season should clarify Doak’s prospects at Anfield for the 2024/25 season and help determine if a loan move is the best solution for all parties involved.
In other Liverpool news, Liverpool’s Bold Move Might Finally Pay Off as Under Arne Slot as £34m Transfer Still Playing Catch Up
