Ben Doak has been a standout performer for Middlesbrough since his summer switch from Liverpool.
It came as something of a surprise when Middlesbrough secured a season-long loan move for Ben Doak on transfer deadline day.
Boro were not in the market for a winger at the time after already signing Micah Hamilton from Manchester City earlier in the window.
But they jumped at the chance to sign the Scotland international, a decision that has paid off massively so far.
Doak was leading the Championship in three key stats earlier this month and continues to shine in every game he plays.
Elsewhere, one Championship expert made an exciting prediction about Doak after his role in Middlesbrough’s win over Sheffield United.
The winger also excelled in the 3-3 draw with Norwich City on Sunday, with his blistering pace and quick feet causing the Canaries all sorts of problems.
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Middlesbrough sources on permanent Ben Doak transfer amid Liverpool claim
Doak’s form has been great for Michael Carrick so far but it has also created speculation he could be recalled by Liverpool in January.
Manager Arne Slot half-joked recently that they should bring the teenager back to Anfield in the January transfer window.
This would be a big blow for the Teessiders and Boro News now have an exclusive update on the situation.
Sources close to Boro News have stated that Middlesbrough are concerned about Slot’s recent comments but that is only natural when you have someone playing like Doak is.
Liverpool are very happy with how he is playing in the North East and while the hope from the Middlesbrough end is that he’ll stay all season, they are worried as there is nothing the club can do if Liverpool end up wanting to recall him in January.
Some Boro fans may be hoping to see Doak return to the Riverside next season on a permanent basis but our sources claim that even if Middlesbrough get promoted in 2024/25, while there might be a chance of a permanent deal, even then they probably couldn’t afford it.
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How Middlesbrough would fare if Liverpool recall Ben Doak
Should the worst happen and Liverpool do recall Doak in January, Middlesbrough have a number of options to replace him.
Marcus Forss is stepping up his comeback and could be an option on the right – a position he scored seven goals from in 21 league ties during 2023/24.
Fellow summer addition Micah Hamilton would likely also be given a run in the side and while he is yet to show his best form at Boro, he is a top talent with European experience.
The third and final replacement for Doak would be Isaiah Jones, though fans are probably not too thrilled at the thought of him starting regularly again after his early-season blunders.