**Wrexham Planning for Ambitious Summer as Prominent Departures and New Targets Emerge**
Wrexham AFC are expected to be at the heart of transfer intrigue this summer, as co-owner Ryan Reynolds and manager Phil Parkinson plot a crucial recruitment drive ahead of life in the Championship. Following their impressive rise through the English football pyramid, the North Wales side face the daunting task of establishing themselves at a higher level, facing well-resourced former Premier League clubs including Southampton, Leicester City, and Ipswich Town.
Since taking over, Reynolds and his business partner Rob McElhenney have helped transform Wrexham into a global football curiosity, but their latest challenge is arguably the toughest yet. Successive promotions have brought them to the brink of elite competition, but the club now faces a significant gulf in quality and finance from more established Championship sides, many reeling from recent Premier League relegations.
Preparations have already begun in earnest. The first signing of the summer, Plymouth Argyle’s striker Ryan Hardie, marks an early statement of intent. Parkinson, however, has also made bold decisions by letting go of fan favourite Paul Mullin—who has joined Wigan Athletic on loan after scoring 110 goals for the Reds—and releasing another seasoned forward, Steven Fletcher. Their departures, while sentimental blows for supporters, underline the ruthless streak required to survive the rigours of the Championship.
Insiders hint that Wrexham’s recruitment will blend youthful promise with Championship veterans. Les Reed, one of the club’s trusted transfer advisors, recently revealed that new arrivals must offer more than just promise: “In the Championship, athleticism is crucial,” noted Reed, speaking to the i Paper. “We want to lower the average age, but we can’t swing too far—there must be a mix of youth and experience.” Reed’s comments suggest the club will avoid the mistake of focusing solely on younger players, a strategy that has backfired for other teams recently.
In defence, one rumoured target is experienced centre-back Craig Dawson, whose contract at Wolves is up this month. Dawson brings a wealth of top-tier experience from tenures at West Brom, Watford, and West Ham. At 35, he could be a steadying presence for a back line, parts of which have been with Wrexham since their non-league days. In contrast, 22-year-old Liverpool left-back Owen Beck, after a successful loan at Blackburn Rovers, is thought to be a player the Dragons are keen to bring in, potentially on loan. Beck’s signing would align with the club’s desire to inject youth and pace into their squad.
The midfield could see further reinforcing, with Sheffield Wednesday captain Barry Bannan heavily linked. Wednesday’s widely reported financial turmoil—several players remain unpaid and a transfer embargo is looming—may soon make the Scotland international available on a free transfer. At 35, Bannan’s experience could help Wrexham navigate the treacherous waters of the Championship, and the club is believed to be ready to offer competitive terms.
Yet as new faces arrive, supporters must brace for further emotional farewells. Reports indicate striker Ollie Palmer may also be set to leave, despite his “legend” status and memorable contributions during the club’s National League-winning campaign. Last season’s dip in scoring form and increasing competition for places could mean the end of Palmer’s chapter at Wrexham, as Parkinson seeks to refresh the squad.
Meanwhile, Wrexham’s rising profile has seen them linked with a host of glamorous names, from Jamie Vardy to Christian Eriksen. However, Reed has cautioned against reckless spending, highlighting the financial reality facing Wrexham: “We’re a million miles away from [those wages],” he explained, noting that the club’s income—without Premier League TV revenue—is limited. The implication is clear: Wrexham must proceed with financial prudence, prioritising spirit and team-fit over star power.
As the transfer window unfolds, the coming weeks will reveal whether Wrexham’s well-publicised documentary stardom can be matched by astute recruitment and sensible squad evolution. The club’s ambition is clear, but the task of balancing excitement with sustainable growth presents a complex summer ahead.
For fans, much hope rests on Parkinson and his recruitment team to repeat the kind of savvy business that has brought so much success so far. As the world continues to watch the Wrexham story, the next chapter may shape not just the club’s fortunes, but also its identity in the Championship.