Liverpool’s future is secured as McConnell contract update emerges
Arne Slot has an eye on the future at Liverpool as he looks to build a sustainable squad.
Liverpool have signed four outfield players so far this summer, with Hugo Ekitike on the verge of taking that number to five.
Jeremie Frimpong, 24, is the oldest of the new arrivals, as Slot is intent on building a team that can challenge for major trophies for many years to come.
The Dutch manager is also keen to continue the Reds’ excellent record of promoting youth players from their academy as an update on James McConnell emerges.
James McConnell close to signing a new long-term deal
Liverpool have several wonderkids at their academy who will be hoping to soon break into Slot’s first team squad.
The youngsters will feel optimistic about their chances, as Liverpool led the way in the Premier League in terms of homegrown players accounting for minutes played, at 16.7 percent, last season [Optus].
One of the players tipped for a bright future is McConnell, who is on the verge of signing a new long-term deal with the Reds, as reported by journalist Lewis Steele (22 July).
| Season | Appearances | Minutes Played |
| 2024/25 | 4 | 237′ |
| 2023/24 | 9 | 238′ |
The 20-year-old has made a handful of senior appearances over the last two seasons and is set to go out on loan after agreeing on his new deal.
Clubs in the Championship and Germany are keen on a deal for the central midfielder, while Liverpool rate McConnell very highly.
With the number of young players currently being nurtured at Anfield, the Merseyside club will feel that their long-term future is secure.
Slot will have pressure to deliver now
Although there has been an emphasis on signing younger players this summer, the calibre of talent brought in will amplify the pressure on Slot’s shoulders.
Ekitike’s imminent arrival will take Liverpool’s summer spending to over £250million, with more signings expected to follow.
The former Feyenoord boss had much lower expectations in his debut season in charge, but will not be afforded that luxury again as the Reds will be expected to compete on all four fronts.
Sign up for the Liverpool News WhatsApp channel and turn on notifications to have all the latest, breaking Liverpool news sent straight to your phone.