Journalist: Liverpool duo set to stay as deadline day approaches

Liverpool Duo Set to Stay as Deadline Day Approaches

As the January transfer window draws to a close, all eyes have been on potential outgoings from Liverpool’s midfield development pool. Speaking on Anfield Index’s Media Matters podcast, journalist David Lynch revealed that both James McConnell and Trey Nyoni are set to remain at Anfield – a move that caught many off guard.

Loan Moves Were Expected

Throughout January, there had been strong indications that one or both players might leave on loan in search of first-team minutes. As Lynch put it, “All the expectation was that at least one of them would go.” He explained that a number of lower-league clubs had been tracking the pair closely, and the assumption was that Liverpool would use the market to give the youngsters a platform for regular football.

However, with just hours left in the window, Lynch confirmed: “It now looks like both are going to stay.” He described it as “a little bit of a surprise,” especially given Liverpool’s reputation for well-timed loan decisions for academy talent.

Decision Shaped by Squad Needs

The decision to keep both players appears rooted in Liverpool’s current injury situation, particularly in midfield and full-back areas. Lynch said: “They need bodies, and the fact that both of them have been training around the first team means they’re just going to stay.”

Photo: IMAGO

Lack of Suitable Loan Opportunities?

Lynch also hinted that Liverpool may not have been fully satisfied with the options presented. “Maybe the right loan just didn’t emerge,” he said. “They don’t want to send these players somewhere they’re not going to play or be developed properly.”

This has been a consistent theme with Liverpool’s approach to youth development. They prefer carefully curated loan moves, rather than simply offloading players for match time. Lynch said the club’s thinking is: “If they’re going to train under Slot and be part of the matchday group, that’s not a bad education either.”

McConnell and Nyoni Set for Key Development Phase

While fans may question the lack of loan experience, both players now have an opportunity to integrate more closely with the first team. Lynch noted, “They’ll be around it now for the rest of the season,” adding that “even getting a few minutes here and there could be massive for their development.”

Their presence also gives Arne Slot more flexibility in managing the squad through injuries and fixture congestion. With Liverpool fighting on multiple fronts, squad depth could be the difference between success and disappointment.