Liverpool are closing in on the Premier League title. One of the main architects behind that is Mohamed Salah, who has enjoyed another phenomenal season and has to be counted among the best in the world right now. Also, he is believed to be close to extending his contract with the club, which could spell the end for someone at Anfield who Celtic fans are familiar with.
Celtic have had a tough time when it comes to convincing their academy graduates to remain at Parkhead rather than leaving early on in their careers. It is not hard to understand why that has been the case, considering the lack of a pathway into the senior team.
One highly-rated youngster who left Celtic in recent years is Ben Doak. The winger made two appearances under the management of Ange Postecoglou, including one in the Glasgow Derby, but that was not enough to convince him to stay put. Instead, he ended up joining Liverpool.
Doak has developed since then but that has not earned him a regular place in the Liverpool first-team. And the time might be right for him to seek a change of scenery once again, although he might not have to travel a long distance to do that.
Liverpool tipped to make controversial decision that interests Celtic
Liverpool have been backed to transfer Doak to Merseyside rivals Everton. As reported by Football Insider, former Manchester United scout, Mick Brown, said:
"I’d be surprised if he stays at Liverpool this summer.
“As much as it may not be ideal, I don’t think they’ll have any issues selling him to Everton if they meet their asking price.
“But they’re not the only side interested, so he will be one to watch."
It remains to be seen if Doak ends up swapping the red of Liverpool for the blue of Everton. Not many have made that jump over the years and doing so would not make him a popular figure among the Anfield faithful, that is for sure.
Why would Celtic be keeping an eye on the situation? Well, there is always a curiosity to see how some of the club's former players are doing.
Also, Doak's success in the Premier League would make it more likely for other youngsters to leave Celtic early on in their careers as well. Naturally, one would imagine that the Hoops would be keeping a close eye on the Scottish international's situation.
Also, it is never a good look when a player who left for £600,000 ends up making a £20 million-plus move just a few years later. So, let's see how it all plays out for Doak, Liverpool and Everton.