Liverpool may already have an ideal successor for Mohamed Salah in a player who brings ‘a slightly different’ edge.

Middlesbrough manager Michael Carrick has praised Liverpool loanee Ben Doak amid growing uncertainty about Mohamed Salah’s future at Anfield. The Egyptian star has raised fresh concerns following his recent comments after Liverpool’s 3-2 win over Southampton. Salah, who scored twice in the second half to secure the victory and keep Liverpool eight points clear at the top of the Premier League, revealed he has not yet received a formal contract offer from the club. With overseas clubs allowed to approach him for pre-contract talks in January, speculation about his future has intensified.

Liverpool remains keen to retain Salah, their highest-paid player, and negotiations for a new deal are said to be progressing positively. However, regardless of whether Salah stays beyond next summer, the club recognizes the need for a long-term successor, with Doak emerging as a potential candidate.

The 19-year-old winger is excelling during his loan spell at Middlesbrough, where he has become a rising star for the Scotland national team and a significant challenge for Championship defenders. Despite recording one goal and three assists in 11 appearances, his impact has been evident, as reflected in Middlesbrough’s strong performances, including a 6-2 win over Oxford United that solidified their playoff position.

Carrick expressed his admiration for Doak’s development, telling The Sunday Times: “He’s a fantastic player with a great attitude, and he carries himself with maturity beyond his years. His determination to keep taking on defenders is refreshing in today’s game.”