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Liverpool Football Club continues to demonstrate its commitment to smart transfer as well as youth development.

The club has moved quickly to secure the futures of two of their most promising midfield prospects, with both Luca Stephenson and James McConnell reportedly close to signing new long-term contracts with the club.

Stephenson, the 21-year-old utility player who impressed during a successful loan spell at Dundee United last season, is expected to agree fresh terms before embarking on another temporary move.

James McConnell, meanwhile, has been absent from Liverpool’s pre-season preparations due to a minor injury, but this hasn’t prevented the club from moving forward with contract discussions.

Liverpool’s approach to developing young talent through strategic loan moves has already seen success this summer with Owen Beck’s move to Derby County.

The Welsh left-back signed a new long-term contract before joining the Championship side on a season-long loan, reuniting with manager John Eustace who worked with Beck during his time at Blackburn Rovers last season.

Now, Wigan has officially announced the loan capture of Liverpool talent Isaac Mabaya for the 2025/26 season.

Credit: www.wiganathletic.com

Originally developed as a midfielder before transitioning to right-back, he made his competitive Liverpool debut in February 2025, coming on as an early substitute for an injured Joe Gomez during their FA Cup tie at Plymouth Argyle.

That debut came after he’d been an unused substitute for Liverpool’s Champions League clash with PSV Eindhoven.

Mabaya’s move to the DW Stadium represents a significant opportunity for the Preston-born defender to gain regular first-team experience in senior football.

Despite being with Liverpool since he was six years old, his pathway to regular minutes has been hampered by injury setbacks, most notably a serious ankle injury that kept him out for 10 months from late 2022 into 2023.

Speaking on his move, the 20-year-old said:

“I am delighted to be here, and can’t wait to get started.”

“Speaking to the Head Coach about what he expects from me, I believe I can bring value to the team.

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“I know how big the Club is, and can’t wait to play in front of the fans?

I’ve heard about how important the supporters are to the team and how good the fanbase is, and I can’t wait to play in front of them!”

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