Cambridge United attacking midfielder Glenn McConnell has signed a new long-term contract, extending his stay at the Cledara Abbey Stadium until June 2028.
The 20-year-old academy graduate has committed his future to the League Two side after enjoying a breakthrough 2025-26 campaign. McConnell first joined the U’s as an Under-9 and now signs his third professional deal with the club.
This season has marked significant progress for the attacking midfielder, who has made 11 senior appearances in all competitions, including four in League Two. He also netted his first professional goal with a long-range strike against Luton Town in the EFL Trophy, a moment that underlined his growing confidence at senior level.
20-year-old loves Cambridge
Speaking after putting pen to paper, McConnell expressed his delight at remaining with his boyhood club.
“I love being at Cambridge. The way the club is going at the minute, it’s a really good place to be. When I have been given my opportunities, I think I have performed well and that is what has earned me this new contract.
The youngster says his exposure to first-team football this term has only sharpened his hunger to feature more regularly.
“I have got a taste for it this season and it has shown me that I can step in and help the team. It gives me more motivation to do it again and again.”
Head coach Neil Harris welcomed the agreement, highlighting McConnell’s development and the club’s commitment to nurturing young talent.
“It’s fantastic news that Glenn has signed a long-term contract with our club. He follows George Hoddle and Ben Knight in committing his future to us – young, developing players who we see real progress both on and off the pitch.
Harris believes the midfielder has already demonstrated the qualities required to become a regular in the side.
“Glenn’s spells this season have shown himself to be a real spark and a player with huge potential. I look forward to working with Glenn for the rest of this season and in the years to come, helping him develop, realise his potential and becoming a regular in the amber and black shirt.”
Statement of intent
Cambridge have made a clear statement of intent in tying down one of their emerging prospects for the long term. With senior minutes already under his belt and a first professional goal to his name, McConnell now has the platform to build on his early progress and push for a more prominent role as the U’s continue their League Two campaign.
Harris’s work has to be admired. Like Shrewsbury, the U’s appeared to be one of those smaller clubs on the slide when they dropped out of League One, but he’s helped turn them around, and keeping exciting young talent at the club is a good way to help build trust with supporters.
