Everton and Liverpool could be set for their first transfer deal in 23 years, with David Moyes reportedly interested in one of Arne Slot’s players.
The Merseyside rivals, whose stadiums are less than a mile apart, have a long-standing history of avoiding direct transfers. Fewer than 30 players have made the controversial switch between the two clubs over the years.
The last player to do so was Abel Xavier, who moved from Everton to Liverpool in 2002 for a reported £800,000. Meanwhile, the last Liverpool-to-Everton transfer occurred in 1992 when Gary Ablett made the switch.
As the summer transfer window approaches, reports suggest Everton manager Moyes is keen on signing Liverpool winger Ben Doak, who has impressed on loan at Middlesbrough this season.
According to The Scottish Sun, Doak could be available for around £25 million, but it remains uncertain whether Liverpool would consider selling to their city rivals. Bournemouth and Crystal Palace have also been linked with the 19-year-old.
Doak’s chances at Liverpool have been limited due to strong competition from Mohamed Salah, Cody Gakpo, Luis Diaz, and Diogo Jota. His impressive performances at Middlesbrough, where he has registered three goals and seven assists in 24 appearances, have drawn attention. However, he has been sidelined since January due to a thigh injury.
Speaking about Doak earlier this year, Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick praised his unique attacking threat, stating: “He’s always in the game and always a threat.”