Latest developments
- Everton are interested in Ben Doak.
- Doak is currently on loan at Middlesbrough from Liverpool.
- The Scotland winger is enjoying a promising season in the Championship.
Whisper+ analysis
Authenticity (2.5/5): Everton linked with a shock move
Everton have set their sights on Scotland winger Ben Doak, who is currently on loan at Middlesbrough from Liverpool.
The story comes from The Sun, who are known for making bold claims but boast an underwhelming record when it comes to getting things right.
Value (3.5/5): Everton prepared to pay more than market value
The 19-year-old is enjoying an impressive campaign in the Championship, seeing his market value rise to £11.7million. However, the Toffees are understood to be plotting a £25million move for the Liverpool winger.
Suitability (3.5/5): Old-fashioned winger
The Scot is a throwback winger, who instead of moving inside the pitch, likes to take on his full-back and whip the ball into the box whenever he gets the chance to find a man in front of the net. His seven assists in the Championship underline his inclination towards creating for his teammates rather than scoring on his own.
Upgrade? (4/5): Harrison replacement
Jack Harrison is currently seen as David Moyes' first-choice right winger. However, the ex-Leeds man has struggled to consistently create chances for his teammates, managing zero assists across all competitions this season. Doak should come in as his direct replacement and given their respective form it shouldn't be easy for the Middlesbrough star to cement his place in the starting lineup.
Logic (1/5): Controversial move
Doak made his senior breakthrough at Celtic but he is currently on Liverpool's books. Switching sides in Merseyside is a very rare occurrence and the player's decision to do the same could put him under the intense spotlight.
Whisper+ verdict: 14.5/25
Everton are willing to spend a significant figure on Doak but his Liverpool ties should make any deal very tough to materialise.
