New West Bromwich Albion head coach Eric Ramsay is reportedly considering a loan move for Liverpool's promising young midfielder James McConnell as his first foray into the January transfer window.
Ramsay's search for midfield spark
Eric Ramsay has now completed his first full week in charge at The Hawthorns after his move from MLS side Minnesota United. His tenure began with a narrow 3-2 defeat to Middlesbrough on Friday 19th January 2026, despite a spirited fightback from two goals down.
The 34-year-old manager has praised the existing squad's atmosphere but acknowledges the need for reinforcements to climb the Championship table. With the club yet to make a January signing, a move for a creative midfielder is seen as a priority.
Why James McConnell fits the bill
The player in Ramsay's sights is 21-year-old Liverpool prospect James McConnell. The England Under-20 international recently returned from a loan spell at Ajax Amsterdam, which was cut short after he managed just 219 minutes of action over five months.
McConnell has 13 senior appearances for Liverpool to his name, including a full 90 minutes in the Champions League under Arne Slot and three Premier League cameos during the 2023/24 season. A loan to the Championship is now viewed as the ideal next step for his development.
Potential impact at The Hawthorns
West Brom's midfield has lacked consistency this season, with various partnerships tried. McConnell would provide fresh competition for established players like Alex Mowatt, Jayson Molumby, and Ousmane Diakite.
Initially, he would likely be utilised as an impact substitute, but his technical quality and energy could see him force his way into the starting lineup. For Liverpool, finding the right club for McConnell's progression is key, while West Brom have a clear need in the engine room, making a potential deal logical for all parties.
The coming days could be crucial as Ramsay looks to put his stamp on the squad and reignite West Brom's push for the Championship's upper reaches.
