Blackburn Rovers and Derby County are two Championship clubs that have been connected with Liverpool midfielder James McConnell.
In a piece for This Is Anfield, journalist David Lynch named Liverpool star McConnell’s admirers as Blackburn Rovers, Derby County, Hull City, Huddersfield Town, and Birmingham City. A decision on his transfer has yet to be made, but he appears to have loan interest in case he is allowed to leave for the 2024-25 season. With so much interest in his skills and no decision made at this point, those interested should keep some alternatives in mind in case the deal falls through.
Here are three possibilities that Blackburn Rovers and Derby County should consider.
Continue to consider… Alex Robertson, Manchester City
Robertson was having a fantastic loan spell with eventual League One champions Portsmouth before an injury cut short his season.
However, he will be fit again for next season, and it would not be surprising if he moves up to the Championship. In fact, Pompey will most likely try to get him back.
Despite this, Blackburn Rovers and Derby County should keep an eye on the very gifted Australian, who can play in a variety of midfield positions and formations. In League One, he performed admirably as an attacking midfielder as well as defensive midfielder alongside Marlon Pack.
Luke Cundle, Wolves
Given Cundle’s performances with Plymouth Argyle and Stoke City last season, a move for him may be ambitious. His achievements may position him for a move to a more upwardly mobile Championship club than Blackburn Rovers or Derby County.
Nonetheless, he ranks among the best Premier League midfielders available for loan.
He scored seven goals and assisted eight times in 43 games last season, whether as an attacking midfielder or in a more box-to-box role. That is certain to elicit appreciative looks.
Alex Matos, Chelsea
Last but not least, 19-year-old Matos will be keen for another chance in the Championship after a half-season with relegated Huddersfield Town.
While still developing, the former Norwich City prospect was a true workhorse in the Terriers’ midfield. In academy football, he excelled in more attacking situations, but he appears to be a natural fit for central midfield.
Blackburn Rovers and Derby County would be excellent places for him to start as he tries to improve his game and realise his amazing potential. Matos is absolutely worth considering as a McConnell alternative.
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