Doak Deal Looms: Bournemouth Near £25m Signing of Rising Star Ben Doak

By Ronald Kapper
Published: August 15, 2025

A promising new chapter may soon unfold for both Ben Doak and Bournemouth. The 19-year-old Liverpool winger is close to finalizing a £25 million transfer to the south coast, a move set to significantly restructure the club’s attacking options. Here’s the full story—transfer progress, context, and implications.

Close to Completion: The Deal in Detail

Bournemouth are on the verge of securing Doak’s signature from Liverpool after submitting an offer that meets the club’s valuation, despite initial reluctance to part with the talented youngster. This comes as the Cherries prepare for Dango Ouattara’s departure to Brentford, with a £42.5 million fee expected. Doak is viewed as the ideal successor in wide areas, offering pace, directness, and youthful potential.

Doak’s journey from Celtic to Liverpool cost just £600,000 in compensation—making his imminent move a massive return on investment. While he’s yet to cement a regular place in Liverpool’s starting XI, his loan spell at Middlesbrough showcased his promise before a thigh injury curtailed his season.

Bournemouth manager Andoni Iraola, known for nurturing young talent, could offer Doak the consistent game time he needs. Despite the switch in environment, Doak has already impressed in pre-season, suggesting a smoother transition ahead. The GuardianTalksport

Why This Move Makes Sense for All Parties

• For Liverpool, it’s astute business—transforming a teenage acquisition into a high-value move while reallocating funds into a summer spending spree.

• For Doak, regular first-team football at a competitive level may unlock his potential more than intermittent Premier League appearances.

• For Bournemouth, it’s smart squad management; replacing Ouattara with a homegrown-potential-rich winger aligns with the club’s strategic blueprint.

Doak’s Career Journey

Born in Dalry, Scotland, Doak emerged from Celtic's academy and arrived at Liverpool in 2022. After a brief taste of Premier League action, he joined Middlesbrough on loan for the 2024–25 season. There, he tallied 3 goals and 7 assists over 24 Championship appearances before an injury intervened. He has also earned 6 senior caps for Scotland, bringing international experience to his resume. Wikipedia

Next Steps and What’s at Stake

Expect the announcement soon—especially as Bournemouth face Liverpool this Friday at Anfield. The timing is notable, with reports suggesting Doak has already been withdrawn from Liverpool’s matchday squad as the transfer nears completion.

If finalized, this deal could kickstart a pivotal chapter not only for Doak’s development but also for Bournemouth’s evolution in attacking strategy.