Three Championship clubs who should target Liverpool gem that Jurgen Klopp said is ‘a joy to watch’
Championship clubs would do well to listen to Jurgen Klopp’s advice when looking up to the Premier League for transfer targets next month.
Sheffield Wednesday, Norwich City, and Oxford United are in the relegation zone currently, with Portsmouth the next closest to the trio ahead of the second-half of the campaign.
At the other end of the table, Coventry City are favourites to be promoted, sitting eight points above second-place Middlesbrough, but there is still plenty to play for.
The January transfer window could have a huge impact on proceedings in the Championship, and, according to talkSPORT (30 December), Liverpool‘s James McConnell could return to Anfield next month.
The 21-year-old is struggling for game time at Ajax, making just one start in the Eredivisie, and these three Championship clubs should be fighting for his signature in the transfer window.
Swansea City
Swansea City were extremely interested in the midfielder during the summer months, and with Klopp saying the player is “a joy to watch,” he would be a welcome addition in South Wales [This is Anfield].
With Ethan Galbraith shifted out to full-back, Vitor Matos could use some figures in the middle of the field, and McConnell could add some much-needed strength.
Derby County
Ebou Adams is being strongly linked with an exit, while David Ozoh remains on the sidelines, and this would not be the first time that the Rams have been tipped to move for the youngster.
Although McConnell’s experience is limited, he has played in both the Champions League and Europe League, and the Reds would surely love him to get more minutes in 2025-26.
He would certainly fit the playing style at Pride Park, proven by fellow academy graduate Bobby Clark. The 20-year-old could help draw McConnell to the Midlands.
Oxford United
The U’s are battling against relegation, currently sitting three points adrift of safety, and it needs to be a balance of talent and experience if they are to make the great escape this season.
Attacking midfielder Luke Harris has been moved back to the defensive midfield spot in recent weeks, but with a new manager likely to be in charge, McConnell could relight his 2025-26 campaign at the Kassam Stadium.