Liverpool’s January Strategy: Doak as a Makeweight for Semenyo?

Liverpool’s January transfer window is poised to deliver intriguing developments, as reports from The Northern Echo suggest a potential swap deal involving Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo and Anfield’s rising star, Ben Doak. With Semenyo valued at £50 million and Liverpool unwilling to meet that price outright, using Doak as a makeweight could make this deal feasible.

Semenyo’s Rise Under Iraola

At 25, Semenyo has blossomed into a versatile attacking threat for Bournemouth, with six goals and three assists across 21 appearances this season. His ability to play on either wing or as a central striker under Andoni Iraola has caught the eye of Liverpool’s scouts. Notably, his energy and adaptability would suit Arne Slot’s high-pressing system at Anfield, particularly given uncertainties surrounding Mo Salah’s long-term future.

Bournemouth, however, are determined to fend off suitors, setting a steep valuation for the Ghanaian forward. Liverpool’s reluctance to spend £50 million in January has led to creative alternatives, including offering Ben Doak as part of a swap.

Doak’s Development at Middlesbrough

Ben Doak, currently on loan at Middlesbrough, has impressed with three goals and six assists in 21 appearances. Signed from Celtic in 2022 for a modest £600,000, the young Scotsman became the youngest Scottish player to feature in the Premier League at 17. His stock has risen, with Liverpool valuing him at £30 million.

The Northern Echo notes that Liverpool have already rejected bids from Crystal Palace (£15m) and Ipswich Town (£16m) for Doak. Despite initial plans to keep Doak for the remainder of the season, the allure of securing Semenyo may prompt a change in strategy.

Slot’s Tactical Vision

Arne Slot’s interest in Semenyo stems from his versatility and potential to fill multiple attacking roles. With Barcelona pursuing Luis Diaz and Salah’s future uncertain, Liverpool need to bolster their forward options. Slot’s proactive approach has already seen him retain key players like Federico Chiesa and initially Doak, but Semenyo’s potential impact might outweigh the cost of losing the young Scot.

James Pearce, a trusted journalist, remarked: “Liverpool believe Doak’s value is considerably higher than the offers they’ve received. Unless there’s a much-improved offer, Doak was set to stay at Middlesbrough for the season.”

This shift towards including Doak in a deal signals Liverpool’s determination to secure Semenyo’s services as they look to cement their top-four status.

What Semenyo Brings to Liverpool

Semenyo’s adaptability across the frontline could prove invaluable for Liverpool. With 13 appearances on the right, six on the left, and one as a central striker this season, he offers tactical flexibility. His explosive pace and direct style complement Liverpool’s attacking philosophy, while his experience under Iraola’s system shows he can thrive in high-tempo environments.

For Slot, this versatility is crucial, especially as Liverpool aim to refresh their attacking options and maintain their competitiveness in both domestic and European competitions.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

This potential swap deal involving Doak and Semenyo has sparked considerable debate among Liverpool supporters. On one hand, the thought of losing Doak, a promising young talent with a bright future, feels premature. His performances at Middlesbrough have showcased his potential to develop into a key first-team player at Anfield.

On the other hand, Semenyo’s current form and Premier League experience are hard to ignore. His versatility aligns perfectly with Slot’s tactical needs, particularly given the uncertainty surrounding the futures of Salah and Diaz. Semenyo’s ability to slot into various attacking roles would provide Liverpool with both depth and flexibility.

For fans, the key question remains: is short-term success worth potentially sacrificing long-term development? If Semenyo can deliver immediately and help secure Champions League football, the deal could pay off. However, losing a player like Doak could haunt Liverpool if he fulfils his potential elsewhere.

This proposed move exemplifies Liverpool’s strategic balancing act between present ambitions and future investments. For now, the ball is firmly in Bournemouth’s court as the January window edges closer to its climax.