Liverpool can save millions on star Andy Robertson 'loves' as Man City ace embarrassed

Liverpool owners FSG could potentially save millions in the transfer market next summer given the form of a young star already contracted to the club.

Ben Doak, 19, played a starring role as Scotland notched their first competitive win in over a year on Friday, beating Croatia 1-0. 

The teenager, currently on loan at Middlesbrough, gave Manchester City defender Josko Gvardiol a torrid time at Hampden Park, with his performance leading to a growing appraisal from national manager Steve Clarke.

The Reds have previously been linked with Real Madrid forward Rodrygo, who is said to be valued at around £90m by the La Liga giants. But given he’s contracted at the Bernabeu until 2028, negotiating a transfer will be a anything but simple for a player reportedly earning £240,000-a-week.

Inevitably the form of Doak, who is equally adept at playing on the wing or as an attacking midfielder, will have been noted by Arne Slot and co. He’s only scored once in his 10 appearances at Boro thus far, but has already become an important player under Michael Carrick.

And given the manner in which he had Gvardiol scrambling, the Celtic Academy graduate appears set for a big future. Indeed, he’s already been given a glowing endorsement by a current Liverpool player and international team-mate Andy Robertson.

And the left-back believes he’s in the right environment to learn before returning to become a force on Merseyside. “I love Doaky. I’ve got a lot of time for him. I can see the quality he’s got at Liverpool,” he previously said.

“He’s obviously gone out on loan now to Middlesbrough which will give him so much good experience. Michael Carrick from what I can see is a fantastic manager that will help him. He’s an exciting player, that’s what he is. He’s always been that from a young age.“

Robertson also revealed he has already talked to Doak about the areas where he needs to improve. He also seemed in little doubt that the youngster has the desire needed to succeed at the top level.

“He has pace, and power, but there are also things he needs to work on and me and him have spoken about it,” he added. “He knows that as well. He’s a hungry individual, he’s very determined to do the best for himself and the team and that’s important.”

Slot has thus far declined to spend big since his arrival at Anfield, but has spoken about the necessity to bolster squad depth. But should Doak continue his progression at both club and international level, the Dutchman may not have to frantically search for a potential Mo Salah replacement next summer.