Liverpool are gearing up for an eventful transfer deadline day, with several young players expected to secure moves in the coming hours.
Kaide Gordon is set to join Portsmouth on loan, while Hull City has entered the race to sign Jayden Danns on a temporary deal. Liverpool is eager to send some of their top young talents out on loan for the remainder of the season.
Initially, James McConnell was expected to stay, with manager Arne Slot previously stating that the midfielder would remain at Liverpool after impressing in the UEFA Champions League against PSV Eindhoven. However, Slot seems to have reconsidered, as McConnell has now attracted loan interest from Championship clubs.
Blackburn Rovers keen on McConnell loan move
According to journalist Darren Witcoop, Blackburn Rovers are interested in signing McConnell on loan. Liverpool appears to have had a change of heart, making the 20-year-old available for a temporary move.
Witcoop reported: “Liverpool plan on loaning out several young players on deadline day. Kaide Gordon to Portsmouth is nearly finalized, while Hull is optimistic about beating Sunderland to Jayden Danns. Blackburn also has their eye on James McConnell.”
McConnell has been described as a ‘special’ talent by teammate Lewis Koumas and is regarded as one of Liverpool’s most promising young players. He has made three senior appearances under Slot this season.
Although the manager had initially ruled out a loan move, allowing McConnell to join a Championship club could be beneficial, as first-team opportunities at Liverpool are likely to be limited for the rest of the campaign.
Liverpool have the squad depth to let McConnell leave
Keeping McConnell would make sense if Liverpool faced an injury crisis in midfield, as they have six senior options available. However, given his current stage of development and limited game time this season, a loan move could be the best step for his growth.
McConnell is highly rated within the club and seen as a player with significant potential. A loan spell could provide him with the experience needed to take his game to the next level, especially after already showcasing his abilities in a senior setting.