**Liverpool have a lot of work to do between now and the end of the summer transfer window to fine-tune their squad.**
In terms of outgoings, Curtis Jones could depart Anfield as Inter Milan continue to chase his signature.
Cody Gakpo has been linked with Tottenham and could well move to North London if the Reds get a sizable offer.
A handful of youngsters are also expected to move out on loan, and it appears as if one of them could be confirmed soon.
According to the [Liverpool Echo](https://www.liverpoolecho.co.uk/sport/football/football-news/liverpool-transfer-state-play-two-34458573), the young midfielder is ‘close’ to joining Preston North End in the Championship.
An excerpt from Ian Doyle’s piece reads: “Liverpool are busy moving a number of Academy players out on loan, with midfielder James McConnell understood to be close to joining Championship side Preston North End.”
He won’t get any game time next season as there are a lot of players ahead of him in the pecking order, as has been the case in pre-season so far.
A loan move to the Championship could be exactly what the doctor ordered for McConnell, whose progress has stalled recently after he burst onto the scene at Anfield.