Wrexham are planning for another busy summer transfer window as they look to strengthen and improve the squad in several key areas after falling just short of the Championship play-offs
Ryan Reynolds’ Wrexham have several signings to make this summer(Image: Frazer Harrison, Getty Images)
Wrexham are facing another crucial summer transfer window after coming agonisingly close to securing a Championship play-off spot during their first campaign in the second tier for 43 years.
The Reds finished the season two points adrift of Hull City following a 2-2 draw with Middlesbrough on the final day. Having brought in 19 signings last summer to transform the squad that secured promotion from League One, another complete overhaul is not required.
Nevertheless, several positions require reinforcement if they are to push on again. Here, Wales Online examines some of the prominent names currently being linked with Phil Parkinson’s side.
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Goalkeeper and defence
Wrexham alternated between Arthur Okonkwo and Danny Ward as their first-choice goalkeeper throughout the campaign and may opt to bring in an uncontested number one. However, the newly-committed Nigeria international could be given another chance after largely impressing during his maiden Championship season.
Both are entering the final 12 months of their deals, meaning decisions regarding their futures will indicate who Parkinson prefers moving forward. Third-choice goalkeeper Callum Burton could depart having featured just twice, both occasions in the League Cup.
Wrexham have a decision to make over Arthur Okonkwo(Image: PA Wire)
Defensively, Wrexham possess strong central options, with Callum Doyle, Dan Scarr, captain Dom Hyam, Max Cleworth and Zak Vyner vying for places. That said, the team lacks depth in wide areas, particularly with Issa Kabore’s loan spell now concluded.
At least three wing-backs are required, so bringing back the Manchester City loanee temporarily once more, if not securing him permanently, would be logical, as would rekindling their pursuit of Ireland international Festy Ebosele and Portsmouth’s Terry Devlin to strengthen their options. Liberato Cacace will return on the left following his World Cup stint with New Zealand, allowing George Thomason to revert to a backup role or move back into a more natural midfield position.
Issa Kabore became a key figure after joining Wrexham on loan in September(Image: Getty Images)
Midfield
Matty James remained a key figure in midfield last season but will turn 35 this summer, meaning Wrexham require a successor. Harry Winks fits a similar mould, brings recent Premier League promotion-winning experience with Leicester City and would be available following their drop to League One.
In a more advanced position, Wrexham are amongst the clubs reportedly tracking Dunkerque attacking midfielder Enzo Bardeli. Set to become a free agent at season’s end, the Lille academy graduate appears poised to depart Ligue 2 after an impressive campaign, netting ten goals and providing another seven assists across all competitions.
Harry Winks could come in to replace Matty James(Image: Plumb Images, Leicester City FC via Getty Images)
Attack
Up front, Wrexham must reduce the workload on Kiefer Moore and Sam Smith. Following links to Ibrahim Diabate last winter, they could renew their pursuit if Alaves opt against signing the striker permanently from GAIS when his loan concludes.
He netted the only goal in their 1-0 victory over Barcelona, just the Ivorian’s second strike since joining the club. Still, they remain a mere point above the relegation zone, and should they be relegated, Wrexham could move quickly to sign last season’s joint top goalscorer in Sweden, provided no other Spanish clubs come calling.