Liverpool midfielder James McConnell is reportedly close to signing a new long-term contract at Anfield, according to The Daily Mail. The 20-year-old, viewed as a key part of the club’s future under Arne Slot, may still head out on loan this season — but only temporarily, and without any option to buy.
Slot’s Faith in McConnell
McConnell, who joined Liverpool from Sunderland as a teenager, has progressed into a composed and promising No. 6. His breakthrough last season caught the eye of new boss Arne Slot, especially after a standout performance in the Champions League against PSV Eindhoven.
So impressed was Slot that he reportedly blocked a January loan move, wanting to keep McConnell close to the first team. According to The Daily Mail, “Slot is a big fan” of the young midfielder, which explains the club’s reluctance to allow any permanent exit clauses in potential loan agreements.
Minor Injury, No Major Concern
McConnell missed Liverpool’s pre-season tour of Asia due to a minor training knock, with the club opting to rest him rather than risk aggravation during long-haul travel. He’s expected to return to full training within the week.
“He will have treatment on it this week… He should be fine again in around a week,” a source told The Daily Mail.
Despite the setback, Slot’s long-term plans for McConnell remain unchanged, further emphasizing the club’s commitment to his development.
Loan Interest Grows Across Europe
Several clubs are monitoring McConnell’s situation, with Ipswich Town, West Brom, and Derby County from the Championship all expressing interest. There’s also Bundesliga attention, a clear indicator of McConnell’s rising stock beyond English borders.
Liverpool, however, are standing firm: no buy option will be included in any deal.
💥 Ekitike Signing Shows Liverpool’s Ambition
Meanwhile, the Reds have struck a deal with Eintracht Frankfurt to sign highly rated striker Hugo Ekitike. The £79 million package — including a £69m base fee and £10m in add-ons — underlines Liverpool’s intent to challenge on all fronts again next season.
“Ekitike only wanted Liverpool and is set to complete a medical in the coming days,” reports The Daily Mail.
A six-year deal has been agreed, showcasing the club’s long-term vision and Slot’s evolving attacking blueprint.
McConnell’s Path Forward
While McConnell may spend the upcoming season away from Anfield, his trajectory is clear: gain experience, develop further, and return ready to compete. Liverpool’s refusal to entertain permanent exit options demonstrates the high regardin which he’s held internally.
Anfield Index View
For Liverpool supporters, this news is all positives.
McConnell isn’t just another academy product — he’s being carefully nurtured as a future midfield cornerstone. Slot’s early commitment to him — including first-team chances, a blocked loan, and now a contract renewal — shows this isn’t just hype.
At the same time, the Hugo Ekitike signing is a massive statement. Outbidding rivals like Newcastle and committing big money signals real ambition. Add that to the club’s Premier League-winning momentum under Slot, and it’s clear something exciting is brewing at Anfield.
Between homegrown stars like McConnell and big-money arrivals like Ekitike, Liverpool are building not just a team — they’re building a dynasty.