Exclusive: Liverpool have told £25m player that he's not in Arne Slot's plans and could now be sold this month

01/04/2025 04:00 AM

Exclusive with Graeme Bailey

Liverpool have informed Ben Doak that he is not in their long-term plans as transfer interest in the youngster gathers pace.

The Reds have turned down two bids for Doak, after both Crystal Palace and Ipswich Town firmed up interest in the 19-year-old.

But despite Liverpool rejecting bids of £15m and £16m respectively, Rousing The Kop understands that the Reds are open to a January sale.

RTK have been informed that Arne Slot does not see Doak as part of his long-term Liverpool squad and has relayed that to the Scotland international.

As a result, it’s understood that Doak is currently assessing his options for a mid-season exit.

Liverpool open to Ben Doak exit

Doak has been having an excellent season on-loan in the Championship with Middlesbrough, scoring two goals and registering five assists in 20 games.

And RTK understands that while Boro are desperate to keep hold of Doak in whatever way they can, they are not currently in the running for a permanent transfer.

It’s understood that Boro could be a more realistic option for Doak should they get promoted to the Premier League this season.

In the meantime, RTK have been informed that Crystal Palace are the most serious contender at this stage having tabled an initial £15m offer.

And although that bid fell short of Liverpool’s valuation, it is understood that a second offer of £25m is likely to be enough to tempt the Reds.

READ MORE: Crystal Palace submit official offer for 'generational' Liverpool youngster

RTK understands that Palace are far from the only club interested in Doak, however, with Ipswich and a number of other top division clubs monitoring the situation.

It’s understood that Doak staying at Boro has also not been ruled out, although at present a permanent sale is looking the more likely scenario.

Doak earns Player of Month award

Doak has certainly been one of the most eye-catching players in the Championship this season.

Following his good form for Boro the teenager bagged himself the division’s Young Player of the Month award for December.

The former Celtic prospect is still some way from the top of the assisting charts in the Championship, though, with West Brom’s Tom Fellows way out in the lead with 10.

But given the electric performances Doak has been showing of late, there’s every chance that he could yet shoot up those charts.

He may have to do it quickly, however, as Premier League interest turns up several notches.