West Bromwich Albion are preparing to enter the January transfer market, with Liverpool's young midfielder James McConnell emerging as a key loan target for head coach Ryan Mason.
Baggies Build Momentum After QPR Victory
The Midlands club secured a much-needed 2-1 home victory over Queens Park Rangers on Monday evening. Goals from defenders George Campbell and Nat Phillips at The Hawthorns eased the pressure on Mason's side. The result leaves West Brom in 16th place in the Championship table after 24 games, currently seven points adrift of the play-off positions.
Mason expressed his relief after the match, stating his happiness with the response from his players. The team now faces a New Year's Day trip to face Swansea City in South Wales, aiming to build on their recent success.
Midfield Reinforcements Sought
With the January window opening imminently, West Brom are actively looking to strengthen their squad. The need for midfield additions has been heightened by the news that Manchester United have recalled loanee Toby Collyer, creating a vacancy in the centre of the park.
According to reports from the Daily Mail, the Baggies have identified Liverpool's 21-year-old James McConnell as a potential solution. The England youth international is currently on a season-long loan at Dutch giants Ajax but has struggled for playing time, making just seven appearances in all competitions.
Competition for McConnell's Signature
West Brom will face competition for the midfielder's signature, however. Several other Championship clubs, including Derby County, Swansea City, and Oxford United, are also credited with an interest in McConnell, who joined Liverpool from Sunderland's academy in 2019.
If a deal can be struck, McConnell would provide competition and depth alongside existing options like Alex Mowatt, Ousmane Diakite, and Jayson Molumby. The final decision rests with Liverpool manager Arne Slot, who must determine the best path for the player's development for the second half of the campaign.
For Ryan Mason, the opportunity to bring in fresh talent represents a chance to revitalise his squad's push up the Championship table as the season enters its crucial second half.
