Liverpool midfielder James McConnell is weighing up his options at the start of the summer transfer window.
The youngster progressed from the Reds’ Under-21s to the senior side during the 2024/25 season, firmly establishing himself as a member of Arne Slot’s first-team group. But, given the quality at the Dutchman’s disposal and the lack of injuries across the squad, minutes were limited for McConnell, who made four senior appearances across the campaign.
After playing a starring role in the Champions League defeat at PSV Eindhoven in January, Slot opted against sending the 20-year-old out on loan, a decision Liverpool had considered earlier in the window.
A loan move remains a possibility heading into the summer months, with the Reds exploring options for a short-term departure that would allow McConnell to continue his development away from Anfield.
A new contract has also been discussed, although Liverpool.com understands no formal talks have yet begun. The England youth international signed a long-term extension last year which expires in 2028.
McConnell could also be open to leaving the Reds permanently this summer, with interest rife among top Championship sides and in Germany.
McConnell on the ball.
McConnell impressed during a Champions League performance against PSV in January (Image: AFP or Licensors)
Sources have indicated that McConnell’s ambition at this stage in his career is to play regular minutes, which seems unlikely at Liverpool. Any decision will be based on what is best for the player’s long-term development.
Slot is also expected to have a say in the player’s future. The Liverpool head coach has been impressed by the player’s development since returning from injury in November.
McConnell primarily trained with the first-team squad this season but did feature in the Under-21s’ final six league matches of the term, with the senior team only competing for the league at that stage. The sense internally at Liverpool is that McConnell has advanced beyond youth level.
The Reds’ early exit from the FA Cup, coming less than a week after the January window shut, was seen as a significant blow to McConnell. The midfielder had hoped to be given more opportunities in the competition.
Andy Robertson, James McConnell, Luis Diaz and Ibrahima Konate compete for the ball.
McConnell has been a regular in senior training this season.
McConnell ended the season with an injury and was seen wearing a protective boot as the Reds collected the Premier League trophy on the final day of the campaign. But it’s believed that was mainly a preventative measure, and McConnell will be available for the start of pre-season.
The academy graduate has made 13 first-team appearances for Liverpool, nine of which came under Jurgen Klopp. McConnell played in the 2024 Carabao Cup final victory over Chelsea and has also featured twice in the Premier League.
He is one of several highly rated academy midfielders, along with Trey Nyoni, Alvin Ayman and Tyler Morton, although the latter is expected to depart this summer.