Celtic’s transfer activity has been under the microscope this summer, with growing frustration among supporters about the lack of new arrivals…
Ben Doak and Greg Taylor of Celtic celebriate victory after the Cinch Scottish Premiership match between Celtic and theRangers at on February 02, 2022. (Photo by Mark Runnacles/Getty Images)
Manager Brendan Rodgers has made it clear he wants to strengthen the squad, particularly out wide, and one name keeps surfacing among fans and pundits, Ben Doak. The winger left Celtic for Liverpool in 2022, but there’s a growing belief that a return to Glasgow, either on loan or permanently, would be a statement move from the club.
Why Ben Doak would be an ideal fit
Doak made his debut for Celtic at a young age, showing the kind of direct, fearless style that made him stand out. His move to Liverpool felt like the natural next step at the time, and while he’s made some progress at Anfield, game time has been limited. He’s featured just ten times for the senior side and spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough, where he managed three goals and seven assists in 24 appearances.
Cristiano Ronaldo of Portugal runs with the ball whilst under pressure from Ben Doak of Scotland during the UEFA Nations League 2024/25 League A Group A1 match between Scotland and Portugal at Hampden on October 15, 2024. (Photo by Euan Cherry/Getty Images)
Interest in Celtic’s transfer business isn’t just coming from fans and pundits. It’s also drawing attention from sports bettors, particularly those who track how signings impact team performance across different leagues. A move like this can shift the betting in real time, tightening league and cup odds and influencing how confident punters feel about backing a club in upcoming fixtures.
This is especially true on platforms that operate with crypto, where players often respond quickly to news of incoming talent. Many of the leading Bitcoin betting sites offer live odds that update in real time and in-play betting options covering everything from the Scottish Premiership to Champions League qualifiers. When a team like Celtic looks set to bring in a fast, attacking player like Doak, the odds often reflect a bump in expectations, both for individual matches and season-long outcomes.
Toulouse’s French defender #23 Moussa Diarra (L) and Toulouse’s Venezuelan midfielder #24 Cristian Casseres Junior (R) attempt to tackle Liverpool’s Scottish midfielder #50 Ben Doak (C) as he runs with the ball during the UEFA Europa League Group E football match between Toulouse FC (TFC) and Liverpool at the Stadium de Toulouse, in Toulouse, southwestern France on November 9, 2023. (Photo by Charly TRIBALLEAU / AFP) (Photo by CHARLY TRIBALLEAU/AFP via Getty Images)
Celtic’s strong market position is evident in UK betting odds, where they are typically priced around 1.16 to win matches against mid- to lower-table teams, indicating heavy favouritism. A transfer like Doak’s arrival can cause these odds to shorten further, signalling increased confidence among punters and bookmakers alike in Celtic’s attacking prowess and season prospects. It’s the kind of transfer that doesn’t just strengthen the squad but can also tip betting markets in the club’s favour.
The situation at Liverpool this summer could open the door for a move. With big-money signings like Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike arriving, Doak is likely to fall further down the pecking order. Former Celtic midfielder and pundit Mark Guidi recently described the idea of bringing Doak back to Parkhead as “sensational.” Speaking on Go Radio, he said Rodgers would jump at the chance if it were realistic, and it might be, if Liverpool decides to let him leave permanently
Celtic’s need for a right-winger
Celtic are short on wide players. Jota’s long-term absence has left a hole, and Nicolas Kuhn, Luis Palma, and Marco Tilio all headed for the exit in recent weeks. That leaves Rodgers with very limited options on the right-hand side, and Doak would bring the kind of speed, directness, and confidence the team is missing.
Nicolas Kuhn celebrates. Celtic Champions 2025. Dundee United v Celtic, 26 April 2025. Photo Vagelis Georgariou (The Celtic Star).
He’s also a player the manager knows how to work with. Rodgers is familiar with the type of winger Doak is, and while they didn’t overlap directly during the player’s first spell at Celtic, the coaching style and expectations are a good match. For a club that wants to do well in Europe and maintain domestic dominance, investing in young, hungry talent is a logical step.
Competition won’t be easy
The idea of Celtic bringing back a player like Doak is exciting, but it won’t be simple. Premier League clubs, including West Ham and Wolves, are reportedly keeping tabs on the Scotland youth international. They can offer higher wages and the chance to stay in England, which might appeal to both the player and his representatives.
Jack MacKenzie and Ben Doak of Scotland warm up during a training session at Lesser Hampden on October 08, 2024. (Photo by Ian MacNicol/Getty Images)
Still, Celtic do have a few things in their favour. Doak knows the club, the fans already back him, and he’d be stepping into a side that offers consistent football at a high level. There’s also the lure of European competition, which remains a key attraction for players trying to raise their profile. A good season in Glasgow could do more for his career than sitting on the bench in England.
What makes the situation more intriguing is whether Liverpool is willing to let him go permanently or prefers another loan. If they see long-term potential in him, a loan might be all Celtic can hope for. But if the Anfield side is open to a sale, Celtic would need to move quickly and be willing to match offers from wealthier clubs.
The timing is right
Brendan Rodgers has made it clear that he’s not just looking for depth; he wants players who can start games, push others, and bring urgency to Celtic’s play. Doak fits that bill. He’s already shown he can handle pressure, and his brief time in England has given him more experience and maturity.
Celtic FC coach Brendan Rodgers looks on before the Como Cup match between Al-Ahli and Celtic FC at Giuseppe Sinigaglia Stadium on July 26, 2025 in Como, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images)
With the clock ticking on the transfer window, this is the kind of move that could energise the squad and the supporters. Whether it ends up happening or not, the fact that this conversation is even taking place speaks to the kind of ambition fans are hoping to see from the club.
