David Ornstein has revealed that James McConnell, a former Sunderland academy prospect, has signed a new five-year contract with Liverpool. The young midfielder will immediately head out on loan to Ajax for the upcoming season.
McConnell, now 20, moved from Sunderland to Liverpool at under-15 level and has since grown into one of the club’s most highly regarded youngsters. He made his first-team debut in Liverpool’s FA Cup victory over Norwich City in January 2023 and was also brought on as a substitute during the EFL Cup final win against Chelsea in 2024. The agreement with Ajax is intended to give him consistent first-team opportunities in midfield, and he is set to undergo a medical before completing the switch.
Interest in McConnell has been strong this summer, with Ipswich Town, West Brom and Derby County all making enquiries, while clubs from the Bundesliga also tracked him. However, Liverpool have made it clear they would not accept any deal that included a purchase option. Manager Arne Slot has been vocal about McConnell’s importance to the club’s long-term vision, even blocking a loan earlier this year after the youngster impressed in the Champions League against PSV Eindhoven.
The England U20 international has built a reputation for his composure and intelligence in the defensive midfield role, drawing praise from both Slot and former manager Jürgen Klopp. Despite his temporary move to the Eredivisie, Liverpool remain fully committed to his future, with his new contract keeping him at Anfield until 2029. The season-long spell with Ajax is expected to offer him valuable experience in both domestic and European competition.
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