Liverpool are poised to make their first significant move of the January transfer window, with midfielder James McConnell set for an early return to Anfield. Meanwhile, the Reds' search for defensive reinforcements has seen them identify Crystal Palace's Maxence Lacroix as a potential alternative to long-term target Marc Guehi.
Midfielder's Loan Spell Cut Short
James McConnell's temporary stint with Dutch giants Ajax has been terminated prematurely, paving the way for his return to Merseyside. The 21-year-old midfielder initially moved to the Eredivisie side at the end of August 2025, following coach John Heitinga who left his role as Arne Slot's assistant at Liverpool to take the top job at Ajax.
However, McConnell struggled to establish himself in Amsterdam, starting just two matches during his loan spell. His situation was further complicated when Heitinga was dismissed as Ajax boss at the beginning of November. According to reports from Dutch publication Voetbal International, the player's return to Liverpool is now confirmed, with the club's hierarchy having made the call to bring him back.
The report suggests Ajax's initial plan to sign an experienced defensive midfielder before recruiting McConnell failed, and their subsequent decision to use him as a short-term solution proved unsuccessful.
Defensive Search Intensifies
With defensive concerns mounting, Liverpool's recruitment team is actively exploring options to bolster Arne Slot's backline. The club's interest in England international Marc Guehi is well-documented, with a deal reportedly collapsing at the last minute in September. In response, attention has turned to his Crystal Palace teammate.
French defender Maxence Lacroix has emerged as a serious alternative target, as reported by the Daily Mail. The 24-year-old centre-back has impressed at Selhurst Park, attracting praise from several pundits with knowledge of Liverpool's needs.
Former Reds defender Jamie Carragher revealed it was a close contest between Guehi and Lacroix when selecting his team of the season so far. "I'm really impressed with Crystal Palace. But I went for Guehi, he's got a few more goals as well," Carragher stated.
Ex-Players Endorse Lacroix Move
Another former Liverpool player, Stephen Warnock, has publicly endorsed a move for Lacroix. Speaking to Aceodds, Warnock highlighted the defender's key attributes. "I actually like Maxence Lacroix from Crystal Palace as well. I think he is a sensational player," Warnock said.
"What he has is immense pace, and what that allows you to do is to go man for man with Van Dijk and Lacroix at the back. He has the physicality as well. I think if they were to sign either Guehi or Lacroix, they would be very happy with either choice. They are both brilliant defenders."
The need for defensive reinforcements is acute. Ibrahima Konate's contract expires at the end of the current season, while veteran Virgil van Dijk, now 34, has only 12 months remaining on his deal. Current injuries to Joe Gomez and the long-term absence of Giovanni Leoni, ruled out for the rest of the campaign, have left Slot's squad dangerously thin at the back.
Context of Liverpool's January Window
Liverpool head into the January 2026 transfer window on a positive note on the pitch, having secured three consecutive Premier League victories against Brighton, Tottenham, and Wolves in December. This resurgence followed a difficult patch for Slot's side.
However, the squad is facing a strain in attacking areas, with Mohamed Salah set to participate in the Africa Cup of Nations and Alexander Isak sidelined with a long-term injury. This has increased the urgency for the club to strengthen its forward options, alongside the clear defensive needs.
The return of James McConnell provides additional midfield depth, but the primary focus for the Anfield recruitment team appears to be securing a new centre-back, with Maxence Lacroix now a named and endorsed candidate in their sights.
