James McConnell Signs New Liverpool Deal, Joins Ajax on Loan to Fill Henderson’s Midfield Role

Liverpool midfielder James McConnell has signed a new five-year contract with the Reds and will move to Ajax on a year-long loan in 2025–26. The 20-year-old, who made his Reds debut in 2023 against Toulouse, has since played 13 times for the Reds, including a remarkable Champions League performance against PSV Eindhoven.

McConnell's transfer to Ajax is in addition to interest from several clubs across Europe but the Dutch side were able to get his signature thanks to the authority of head coach John Heitinga, who used to work with McConnell during the time he was serving as assistant to Arne Slot. Ajax see McConnell as a direct replacement for Jordan Henderson, who left the club during the summer.

The midfielder, who is celebrated for his poise and control, led Liverpool's U21s and is also one of the brightest prospects to come out of the club's academy. His contract renewal is a testament to Liverpool's long-term confidence in his growth, despite having a wholesale squad overhaul. The club has already let go of some influential players this transfer window, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Darwin Núñez already departing.

McConnell's loan stint with Ajax should give him experience in the first team in a competitive European league in preparation to become a member of Liverpool's first team someday.