Other clubs were mentioned, most notably Real Sociedad who he visited one weekend in the second half of last season, but, even though he said he had no idea where he was going in the aftermath of his last Burnley game at Villa, most Clarets thought it was a certainty he would go to Anfield and, let's face it, there were moves by some to get him there in January. That failed and led to him being substituted in the next game at Sunderland after a particularly poor performance after which Sean Dyche said: "I was actually borderline whether to play him."
Ings duly signed for Liverpool in July and it became apparent very quickly that the two clubs were poles apart when trying to determine a valuation for him with us due a payment because of him being under the age of 24.
That's gone on and on. There have been all kinds of figures banded about and this morning the national press are reporting that Liverpool's valuation is £6m while Burnley are asking for substantially more than that.
It's been a talking point on this site's message board for some time, mostly the time it is taking to get any payment, and it was resurrected again last week. At the time I reported that our club were close to submitting their report and it was looking as though the Professional Football Compensation Committee (PFCC) would be convened in January to determine the amount we should receive. They will consider the submissions from both clubs before deciding on any fees to be paid.
The Daily Telegraph are reporting today that his recent England cap should have no bearing because the commission should only consider the player's valuation at the time he moved clubs, but, as they add, Burnley will be able to argue that Ings has shown himself to be a striker of international pedigree.
It is still possible that the two clubs could agree without the need for a tribunal, although that seems very unlikely. It is reported that the Premier League would prefer that although they have now instructed Liverpool to make their submissions.
The likely date is January after which Liverpool will be expected to make an immediate payment although there could be some add on figures based on appearances and even potential England caps. There could also be a sell on clause.