‘Liverpool make James McConnell exit decision amid pre-season setback’
Liverpool boss Arne Slot continues to face vital decisions in the transfer market as the Reds strive to retain their Premier League title.
Meanwhile, young midfielder James McConnell has suffered an injury ahead of the Merseyside club’s pre-season tour of Asia.
Arne Slot’s men are set to face Italian giants AC Milan on Saturday, 26 July, before taking on Japanese outfit Yokohama F.Marinos four days later.
The defending Premier League champions defeated Preston North End 3-1 in their first pre-season outing on Sunday, 13 July.
Liverpool youngster McConnell set for loan exit amid Championship interest
While McConnell is missing out on the Reds’ upcoming clash with Milan, he is also set to leave Anfield ahead of next season.
The 20-year-old made just four appearances for Liverpool across all competitions last season, failing to make a Premier League outing.
Meanwhile, the Daily Mail’s Merseyside football reporter, Lewis Steele, revealed via X on Monday, 21 July: “Liverpool youngster James McConnell close to signing a new long-term deal and is likely to head out on loan for the season.
“Misses Asia tour due to minor injury, decided flight/jetlag could exacerbate. Ipswich, West Brom, Derby plus German clubs keen. LFC rate him highly.”
McConnell would be best served by Championship move
Football Insider verdict
Liverpool demonstrated how highly they think of McConnell by handing him a Champions League appearance last season.
| James McConnell stats | All competitions 2024/25 |
| Appearances | 4 |
| Goals | 0 |
| Assists | 0 |
However, the 20-year-old endured a lack of game time, which is far from ideal for his development, while his career remains in its relative infancy.
On the other hand, the midfielder could thrive if he moves on loan to the Championship to join any of Ipswich, West Brom, or Derby.
The second tier of English football remains an ideal breeding ground for young talent, as shown by fellow Liverpool youngster Ben Doak’s largely successful loan stint with Middlesbrough.
McConnell could reap the benefits of helping Ipswich in their quest to seal an immediate return or featuring for West Brom in their upcoming battle to land their second playoff spot in three seasons.
The 20-year-old has shone for the Reds at academy level, and now deserves the opportunity to show what he can do on loan at senior level.
Meanwhile, Slot’s men have been tipped to seal a move for Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi in a Liverpool News 247 exclusive.