Wrexham Football Club has ended its 15-year exile from the English Football League (EFL) by clinching the National League title this season. The Welsh club’s return to the EFL marks a significant milestone in their journey, and now they are determined to make their mark in League Two. To achieve their goals, Wrexham’s Hollywood owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, are looking to bolster their squad with fresh faces during the upcoming summer transfer window.
Manager Phil Parkinson, although content with the current impressive squad, recognizes the importance of continuous improvement to compete in the higher league. While securing the services of Gareth Bale remains highly unlikely, Wrexham has shown its potential to attract former internationals, successfully persuading Ben Foster to come out of retirement.
Foster, the former England goalkeeper, joined Wrexham on a short-term deal, which is set to expire soon. However, discussions are underway between the club and the 40-year-old shot-stopper regarding a contract extension. The joyous celebrations following Wrexham’s title triumph are expected to sway Foster’s decision in favor of staying with the club.
Although the defense is an area where Parkinson is less concerned, the club acknowledges the need for long-term replacements. Wrexham’s solid back three, consisting of Jordan Tunnicliffe, Ben Tozer, Eoghan O’Connell, Aaron Hayden, and Thomas O’Connor, played a crucial role in the team’s success. Tunnicliffe, Tozer, Hayden, and O’Connor, all having previous EFL experience, will continue to contribute while the manager searches for suitable successors. O’Connell, who joined from Charlton in January, is expected to continue playing a key role in the defense.
Wrexham has also been active in strengthening its flanks. Ryan Barnett, a 23-year-old right-wing-back, was acquired from Solihull Moors in February and is confident about his prospects in League Two next season. On the opposite flank, an intriguing possibility has emerged as Danny Rose, the 32-year-old Champions League finalist, expressed his desire to make a comeback. Rose, who has been without a club for a year, is carefully considering his options, and Wrexham’s unique connection with Reynolds and McElhenney could make them an ideal fit for the experienced fullback.
Wrexham’s ambition doesn’t stop there. They are targeting another high-profile signing in the form of Danny Drinkwater, the 33-year-old Premier League winner. Drinkwater has been without a club since last summer and recently expressed his eagerness for an exciting offer. Wrexham could be the perfect destination for the midfielder, who would undoubtedly bring significant value and experience to the team. A potential partnership between Drinkwater and James Jones, a 27-year-old Scot with extensive EFL experience, could solidify Wrexham’s midfield.
The No.10 role is a key position that Wrexham aims to strengthen, and Jonny Williams emerges as an ideal candidate. The 29-year-old Welshman, who helped his country reach the semi-finals of Euro 2016, has a wealth of experience across all levels of the Football League. Williams’s contract with Swindon is set to expire next month, and Wrexham could seize the opportunity to secure his services.
In terms of striking options, Paul Mullin, who had an outstanding season, could potentially reunite with his former strike partner Joe Ironside. Ironside, 29, has recently been released and played a crucial role in Cambridge United’s promotion from League Two during the 2020/21 campaign. The duo’s successful partnership,
