Preston North End are reportedly considering a loan move for Liverpool midfielder James McConnell as they look to reshape their options following Ben Whiteman’s departure.
Whiteman has left Deepdale for Wrexham this summer, creating an obvious vacancy in the centre of the pitch ahead of the new Championship campaign. Preston are now assessing potential additions, and 21-year-old McConnell is understood to be among the players on their radar.
A report on Preston’s interest claims the Lilywhites are keen on taking the Liverpool youngster on loan before the transfer window closes on 1 September.
McConnell is back on Merseyside following an unusual 2025/26 campaign. He joined Ajax on loan last August after signing a new five-year Liverpool contract, but the temporary spell was cut short in February after he made only seven appearances in all competitions. That lack of football in Amsterdam could make another temporary move attractive, particularly if Preston can offer him the regular senior minutes that proved difficult to find in the Netherlands.
The midfielder has remained involved with Liverpool this summer and has been given first-team opportunities during pre-season. His situation has also reportedly attracted interest from Leicester City, potentially leaving Preston with competition if Liverpool decide another loan is the best option for his development.
McConnell already has experience of senior football at Anfield despite his age. He made his Liverpool debut against Toulouse in the Europa League in October 2023, later appearing in the Premier League and Champions League, while also starting an FA Cup victory over Norwich City. He was part of the squad that won the League Cup in 2024, coming off the bench during the final against Chelsea.
Preston’s need for another midfielder has become more pressing since Whiteman’s move to Wrexham. The 30-year-old had been a major part of the Deepdale midfield since arriving from Doncaster Rovers in January 2021, making 185 league appearances for the club before his summer departure. His transfer to Wrexham is listed among the confirmed moves of the current window.
McConnell would not represent a like-for-like replacement in terms of experience, but there is plenty to like about the profile. He has been exposed to elite-level football, remains at an age where regular Championship minutes could accelerate his development, and would arrive with something to prove after a frustrating spell with Ajax.
A loan would also allow Preston to strengthen an important area without committing to a permanent deal. With Whiteman gone and further recruitment still required, McConnell looks the type of opportunity that could make sense for both club and player.
Comments Welcome!