Liverpool youngster James McConnell close to signing a new long-term deal | OneFootball

Liverpool are close to tying down young midfielder James McConnell to a new long-term contract, according to journalist Lewis Steele.

The new deal is a clear sign that the club view him as part of their future, although a minor injury has deprived him of the chance to show manager Arne Slot what he can do in the pre-season tour of Asia.

The 20-year-old’s absence from Slot’s 29-man squad that travelled to Hong Kong raised several eyebrows, even though Stefan Bajcetic, Rhys Wiliams and Calvin Ramsay also stayed behind.

McConnell’s omission has now been clarified. Steele has confirmed that the talented midfielder is set to agree a long-term contract extension at Anfield.

However, the club are also lining up a loan move for the upcoming season, and the midfielder is not short of options.

Ipswich Town, West Bromwich Albion and Derby County, along with unnamed German clubs, are all keen on securing his services.

McConnell’s injury was nothing serious, but it was enough for the club to take him off the list of players heading to Asia. They didn’t want to risk any complications from long flights or jet lag.

The youngster’s setback was a huge blow. He was eager to impress Slot during the club’s friendlies in the Far East, especially with high-profile games against AC Milan and Yokohama F Marinos on the cards.

McConnell has made 13 senior appearances for Liverpool. Most of his game time came in domestic cups, but he has already shown glimpses of his immense potential.

Slot is a fan of McConnell. He admitted that the midfielder impressed him a lot during a 3-2 Champions League defeat against PSV Eindhoven last season.

But breaking into Liverpool’s star-studded midfield is a different ball game entirely.

A loan move is the logical next step. A move to a Championship side pushing for promotion will give him the perfect platform to polish his game and return to Liverpool more prepared for top-flight football.