Liverpool midfielder James McConnell has signed a new five-year contract at the club ahead of a reported loan move to Ajax for the 2025/26 season. McConnell, 20, is highly rated at Anfield and has already made 13 appearances at first-team level.
Having come through the academy system, he impressed in Liverpool's away Champions League debut against PSV Eindhoven in January. That sparked speculation of interest from a number of teams, including West Brom and Austrian side Sturm Graz. Having seemingly secured his long-term future on Merseyside, he's not set to be reunited with former Liverpool assistant coach John Heitinga for a year in the Netherlands.
According to the Athletic, a deal is already in place for McConnell to make his move. He's now due to undergo a medical ahead of completing his temporary to the Eredivisie club.
The influence of Heitinga was said to be significant in Ajax winning the race. He worked with the England youth international while serving as assistant manager to Arne Slot in the 2024/25 season, when he helped lead Liverpool to the title.
Liverpool reportedly favoured sening McConnell to Ajax due their willingness to negotiate swiftly. Heitinga’s inside knowledge of Slot’s tactical play was also said to be a major factor in agreeing a deal for him to develop.
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