Two Liverpool stars set to leave in Janaury

Liverpool plan January recalibration as loanees return

Credit to Empire of the Kop for the original article, which highlights a quietly significant January moment for Liverpool. While this window may not bring headline signings, it could still shape Arne Slot’s short term options, particularly with James McConnell and Owen Beck expected back at Anfield following curtailed loan spells.

The report states that both players are “expected to return to the club in January following an early end to their loan spells”. Opportunities proved limited, especially for McConnell at Ajax, and injuries have further complicated Beck’s time at Derby County. For Liverpool, this brings squad depth questions back into sharp focus.

McConnell loan setback opens internal discussion

McConnell’s loan has been described as “a disappointing spell”, with the midfielder earning “only 219 minutes from seven appearances in all competitions” for Ajax. That lack of exposure came amid a difficult season for the Dutch club, who “find themselves a whopping 16 points behind league leaders PSV”.

This matters because Slot previously identified McConnell as one to watch. He was singled out after an impressive Champions League display against PSV, yet momentum stalled soon after. His Liverpool record stands at “4 appearances” and “237 minutes” in the 2024/25 season, with his last senior chance coming in the FA Cup defeat to Plymouth.

With the manager keen to manage workloads, particularly in midfield, McConnell’s return feels timely. The original piece suggests that Slot “would much rather avoid relying on Wataru Endo to rest Ryan Gravenberch”, a line that hints at genuine opportunity rather than squad filler status.

Beck injury reinforces long term planning

Beck’s situation is more straightforward. His Championship spell was halted after “a hamstring surgery was required after an issue incurred during a 40-minute display against Blackburn Rovers’ U21s”. With Milos Kerkez viewed as the long term starting left back and Andy Robertson still central to plans, there appears little immediate pathway.

Photo: IMAGO

The article adds that Liverpool are “not currently giving serious thought to the notion of Beck having a prominent squad role”, which aligns with wider recruitment strategy rather than short term necessity.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, this report feels less about transfer drama and more about judgement. The club are being forced to reassess players they already know, rather than chase quick fixes. That can be frustrating, but it can also be smart.

McConnell stands out. Fans remember Slot’s public praise and the calm way he handled himself in Europe. Seeing his development stall on loan is disappointing, yet it also brings him back into focus at a time when midfield minutes need managing carefully. If Liverpool truly want to reduce the load on Gravenberch, this is the moment to find out if McConnell can be trusted.

Beck’s situation feels clearer. Injuries and squad planning have closed doors, and a future move elsewhere would surprise few supporters.