Liverpool Midfielder Set to Sign New Long-Term Contract – Report | OneFootball

James McConnell’s Liverpool Future: A Bright Prospect with Slot’s Backing

Liverpool midfielder James McConnell is on the verge of signing a new long-term contract at Anfield, as reported by The Daily Mail. The 20-year-old, who impressed Arne Slot last season, is seen as a key part of the club’s future despite being lined up for a loan move this season.

McConnell’s Rise Under Slot

Since arriving from Sunderland as a teenager, McConnell has developed into a promising No 6, breaking into the first-team picture last season. His standout moment came in the Champions League against PSV Eindhoven, where he caught the eye of Slot. The Dutch manager even blocked a potential January loan, determined to keep McConnell involved in first-team plans.

According to The Daily Mail, “Slot is a big fan” of McConnell, which explains why Liverpool are reluctant to include any option-to-buy clause in potential loan deals. Interest from Championship sides Ipswich, West Brom and Derby, as well as German Bundesliga clubs, highlights McConnell’s rising stock.

Minor Injury, Major Opportunity

McConnell was left out of Liverpool’s pre-season tour of Asia due to a minor injury, described by The Daily Mail as “just a knock suffered in training”. The club decided against him flying to Hong Kong or Japan, mindful that long-haul travel could worsen the issue. He is expected to be back in full training within a week.

Photo: IMAGO

This temporary setback does not seem to have dulled Slot’s enthusiasm for the young midfielder. A source told The Daily Mail, “He will have treatment on it this week… He should be fine again in around a week.” It is clear McConnell remains firmly in Slot’s plans, even as the manager readies the squad for another Premier League campaign.

Ekitike Deal Signals Liverpool’s Ambition

In parallel, Liverpool have agreed a deal with Eintracht Frankfurt to sign highly-rated striker Hugo Ekitike. The £79 million package, made up of a £69m base fee plus £10m in performance-based add-ons, shows the club’s intent to reinforce their attack.

Ekitike, previously a Newcastle target, was determined to join Liverpool. As The Daily Mail reports, “Ekitike only wanted Liverpool and is set to complete a medical in the coming days.” His six-year contract underlines the Reds’ long-term vision as they look to build on last season’s Premier League triumph under Slot.

Bright Future Ahead

McConnell’s expected contract extension and loan spell are both carefully designed to aid his development. While Liverpool fans will miss seeing him regularly at Anfield this season, a competitive loan should offer him the minutes he needs to further hone his skills. Given Slot’s faith, it is no surprise the club are keen to keep McConnell’s future in their own hands.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

Liverpool fans have every reason to be buzzing over this news. James McConnell is not just any academy graduate; he is seen by many as the next big thing in midfield. The way Arne Slot has handled him — blocking a January exit, giving him game time in Europe, and now backing a long-term deal — speaks volumes.

Supporters will be thrilled to see that the club are not willing to include an option-to-buy in any loan deal. That signals total belief in his potential. A season in the Championship or even the Bundesliga could be perfect, giving McConnell the chance to toughen up, learn, and return sharper.

And then there’s Hugo Ekitike. What a signing! Poaching Newcastle’s top target, securing him on a six-year deal, and dropping nearly £80m shows that Liverpool mean business. Fans are dreaming of a front line with Ekitike adding firepower, especially after the title-winning season under Slot.

There’s a real sense around Anfield that this is a new era of dominance. With young stars like McConnell coming through and big-money signings like Ekitike arriving, Liverpool supporters can dare to believe they are building something very special.