Liverpool’s plan for James McConnell revealed as youngster set to avoid deadline day exit

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Liverpool’s transfer deadline day has been as quiet as predicted, with the Reds set to end the window without a senior signing.

January has historically been a time when Liverpool have done some of their best business, but the 2025 edition never threatened to spark into life.

As supporters wait for the 11pm deadline on Monday, the only excitement at Anfield will be regarding any loan moves for Liverpool’s youngsters.

Jayden Danns looks set to join Sunderland for the rest of the season in what feels like an exciting switch, while a number of other Liverpool academy players could yet depart.

One player who doesn’t appear to be going anywhere, however, is James McConnell.

McConnell caught Arne Slot’s eye after starting against PSV Eindhoven last Wednesday. And as his reputation continues to grow, journalist David Lynch has explained what Liverpool are now planning for the 20-year-old.

Liverpool planning summer loan for James McConnell

McConnell looks well suited to be exactly the kind of midfielder Slot would like to count on in the Liverpool squad.

As a result, some may see the Reds’ refusal to send him out on-loan as a boost to McConnell being a long-term first-teamer at Anfield.

However, according to Lynch, Liverpool are still planning to let the former Sunderland prospect leave and get experience once the season comes to a close.

In the meantime, he’s likely to get senior minutes here and there until the campaign concludes.

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“I do expect he’s going to start this FA Cup game that’s coming up [against Plymouth], be in and around the squad in the League Cup as well and maybe in some Premier League games,” Lynch told Anfield Index on transfer deadline day. “I think that’s how it’s been kind of sold to him.”

“I think the expectation is he’s going to get a loan in summer, that’s very much the thinking here.

“So, it’s just kind of stick around and we’ll get you a really good loan for next season and you can go out and show us what you can do and see if you can fight your way into this Liverpool squad. That is the plan for him.”

What about Tyler Morton?

McConnell’s rise has arguably come at the expense of fellow young midfielder Tyler Morton.

As Rousing The Kop exclusively revealed over the weekend, West Ham have been considering a move for Morton ahead of the transfer window closing.

But according to Lynch, it seems as though a transfer simply hasn’t materialised for the Scouser.

“Really surprised that he hasn’t [left],” says the reporter. “I thought everything would be done to get him a move in January.

“I wonder whether January wasn’t seen as the right time by certain clubs and they’ll keep their powder dry for the summer. I do expect he will depart at that point. But it’s a shame for him, really.”