Liverpool confirmed Bendark’s move to Bournemouth for a £25 million price, with the young winger signing on a five-year deal and filming the No. 11 shirt at Vitality Stadium.
The move shows another important investment from Cherry, which continues to reshape the team under Andoni Iraaura.
For Doak, it represents an opportunity to eventually break out of Anfield’s shadow and establish himself as a regular first team player in the Premier League.
The players made their promise at Liverpool. Liverpool found opportunities restricted by a 19-year-old star-studded attack and now chose a club where he can develop at the senior level.
Liverpool added a buyback clause to its deal
There is an important caveat in Liverpool’s sales decision. As reported, the deal includes a buyback clause, ensuring that the Reds retain their path to reclaim Doak if they meet the great potential they believe they have.
The clause reflects the approach Liverpool took in selling Jarrell Quanza, highlighting the club’s long-term plans and the loss of some of its brightest academy products forever.
Doak’s decision to choose Bournemouth is particularly interesting given his level of interest in services.
Portuguese giant Porto pushed his signature hard, and Nottingham Forest and Leeds United enquired early in the summer.
Everton was interested in signing Ben Doak
Everton even looked into the possibility of a move, but ultimately did not follow up with a formal bid. Earlier this year, Crystal Palace and Ipswichtown had also contacted Liverpool about potential relocations.
The move brings Liverpool’s summer sales to an astounding £206 million. This could rise to £227 million when various trading add-ons are considered.
For Bournemouth, Doak’s arrival could prove to be signing a statement. He is a player known for his pace and creative quality in a wide range of attacking positions.
If he fulfills that promise on the South Coast, Liverpool’s buyback clause could come out earlier than later.
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