A comprehensive list of the transfers Wrexham AFC can complete in the remaining winter transfer window.
The final stretch of the January window is on, with the deadline merely a week away. It’s all hands on deck, all the time, as Wrexham get the final opportunity to finetune their roster before competing for a Premier League promotion.
In the four weeks of transfer action so far, the Reds have been vigilant in cutting the excess layers of the squad. With the permanent departure of James McClean and three loanees, Andy Cannon, Tom Kelly & Max Purvis sent out, Wrexham’s transfer business has been exclusively outgoing.
While the exit gate is still wide open, Wrexham are touted to play the buyer in this last week as well. Here is a list of the 7 transfers Wrexham can finalise to close their January transfer books.
3 transfer reinforcements Wrexham can complete
New striker(Centre-forward)
Given the buzz around Wrexham’s striking links with Adam Armstrong and Sidiki Cherif, a signing is expected. While Phil Parkinson’s recent visit to scout Cherif barely proved fruitful, the teenager’s £19m move remains in contention.
Even if not at the quoted price tag, it feels reasonable for Wrexham to bring in at least one star recruit in the attacking department. Will it be Adam Armstrong, Sidiki Cherif or anyone else? It remains to be seen.
Right-Wing Back(RWB)
In recent times, hardly any lineup consistency has been witnessed in this position. With Ryan Longman reduced to the bench on the back of a brilliant spell, even Issa Kabore’s starting role isn’t guaranteed every time.
Noticeably, Wrexham’s January efforts kicked off with them searching for an upgrade over Kabore in Hampus Skoglund. Alongside him, Yan Valery is another option who can be cost-effective, too. If Wrexham decide to bring a role specialist to compete with Kabore, the market is still open.
Another Wing Back(LWB/RWB)
Not to forget, Wrexham’s January agenda was touted to be based on the Reds adding wing depth to the roster. While the return of injured stars like Liberato Cacace and Issa Kabore has curtailed the need, it remains a position worth investing in.
With Dan Scarr clearly out of the depths of Wrexham’s favoured trio, Doyle, Cleworth, and Hyam, a right-back(who can be a makeshift CB) can be a great reinforcement.
READ MORE: Phil Parkinson’s choice is clear between Sidiki Cherif and Adam Armstrong
READ MORE: ‘Wasted him’ – Wrexham fans don’t want Adam Armstrong signing in January
READ MORE: Phil Parkinson outlasts 10 Championship managers after Leicester City sack update
That’s not forgetting the needs of the left wing at all. With Cacace being the only conventional wing-back available, a new signing for the LWB role can increase Wrexham’s strength. While it guarantees to give Cacace a solid competition, a rotation pattern can work just like on the RWB role.
4 transfer departures for Wrexham to finalise
Paul Mullin
With Super Mulls making his way back to game rhythm with reserve game starts, Wrexham are advancing towards another loan spell for the icon.
In January, a number of clubs, including Salford City and Bolton Wanderers, have already shown interest in Mullin. While a Wrexham exit remains the only way ahead in Mulls’ career, this week will be crucial for the Reds in finalising the next club for him.
Elliot Lee
Just like Paul Mullin, Elliot Lee is another cult hero of Wrexham who needs to decide on his destiny far from the club.
While Lee had come unimaginably close to a loan departure, he remains in the Wrexham camp for now. Optimistically, Phil Parkinson and co. can make his exit feasible soon, as the 31-year-old is trying to leave amidst his reduced sporting importance and lack of minutes at Wrexham.
Ryan Barnett
Despite just being 26, Ryan Barnett falls into the same category of Wrexham’s heroes as Paul Mullin and Elliot Lee. Though he stood as a priority right-back in last seasons, Barnett’s unproven Championship pedigree has seen him have reduced game-time.
With Wrexham employing multiple RWB options in Issa Kabore and Ryan Longman available, Barnett could be leaving Wrexham soon. Though he is yet to receive a formal offer, a backroom deal like that of Andy Cannon can see Barnett walking down the exit door as well.
Harry Ashfield
Last, but not least, on the list comes Harry Ashfield. Despite a very bright future ahead of him, Ashfield could be following in Tom Kelly and Max Purvis’ steps to leave for regular game opportunities.
Already, Ashfield had come quite close to departing for League Two side, Bristol Rovers, in last weeks. While the rumour has gone cold lately, any lower-tier club would be more than willing to sign a talent like Ashfield on a deadline-day move.
READ MORE WREXHAM NEWS HERE:
- Phil Parkinson’s choice is clear between Sidiki Cherif and Adam Armstrong
- ‘Wasted him’ – Wrexham fans don’t want Adam Armstrong signing in January
- Phil Parkinson outlasts 10 Championship managers after Leicester City sack update
- Wrexham fans won’t believe how little it will cost to sign Yan Valery
- 2 Winners and 2 Losers from Adam Armstrong joining Wrexham in January