**Wrexham AFC Eyes Record-Breaking Deal for Controversial New Zealand International Liberato Cacace**
Wrexham AFC, the historic Welsh club rejuvenated by Hollywood co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, is reportedly poised to set a new club transfer record with the signing of New Zealand international Liberato Cacace, according to several sources close to the negotiations.
Cacace, a left-back currently playing for Empoli in Italy’s Serie A, became the centre of attention last season following a contentious tackle on England star Kyle Walker during a league clash against AC Milan. The incident, which saw Walker writhing in pain after a forceful challenge, drew significant debate as Cacace managed to avoid any disciplinary action despite a review by the Video Assistant Referee (VAR). Observers noted their surprise at the decision, with many describing the incident as a ‘horror tackle.’
The transfer, should it proceed as expected, would eclipse Wrexham’s previous highest fee—the £2 million spent earlier this year for striker Sam Smith from Reading. Reports circulating in the Italian and UK media suggest the Robbins are prepared to pay Empoli an initial sum of £2.16 million (€2.5m), with additional performance-related bonuses potentially raising the total value of the deal to around £4 million.
Liberato Cacace’s career has seen him attract increasing attention, both for his performances and his penchant for on-the-pitch drama. Since joining Empoli on loan from Belgian side Sint-Truiden in January 2022—a move that later became permanent—Cacace has made 74 appearances in one of Europe’s most competitive leagues. Despite Empoli’s relegation at the end of the last campaign, the 24-year-old’s attacking prowess and defensive tenacity have kept him on the radar of several Italian sides, including Cagliari, Pisa and Cremonese. Nevertheless, Wrexham appear to have won the race for his signature now that they are preparing for life back in the Sky Bet Championship.
This landmark signing is expected to be a crucial addition for Wrexham, who are eager to consolidate their place in the second tier following a remarkable resurgence in recent years. The move coincides with a pre-season tour that will see the Welsh club play Cacace’s old team, Wellington Phoenix, in his hometown, further highlighting the player’s journey from New Zealand football to European leagues and, soon, to the Football League Championship.
Cacace’s reputation for combative football doesn’t end with his run-in with Kyle Walker. In 2019, during the FIFA Under-20 World Cup, he irked Colombian fans after celebrating a penalty shootout goal against their team by shushing the goalkeeper. New Zealand went on to lose that match, and Cacace faced a flurry of criticism and even threats on social media shortly after. More recently, in March 2024, he was shown a red card after an altercation with Tunisia’s Elias Achouri during the ACUD Cup in Egypt—a decision which his national team manager described as “harsh,” and for which both players were sent off.
Despite these controversial moments, Cacace’s footballing quality continues to shine. In early 2024, he was surprisingly nominated for the prestigious FIFA Best Men’s XI award, rubbing shoulders in the shortlist with the likes of Antonio Rudiger and Dani Carvajal. Reacting to the nomination, Cacace himself confessed his disbelief, admitting he assumed it was “some kind of joke” before confirming its authenticity with friends and his agent.
Wrexham’s ambitious bid for Cacace is a clear signal of intent from a club aiming to cement its place among English football’s elite. It also underscores the effect of high-profile ownership and investment in revitalising football teams outside the traditional top flight. The expectation is that Cacace’s arrival will not only bring fresh defensive solidity and attacking width, but also inject a fiery competitive spirit, which could be key as the club navigates the challenges of the Championship.
As the deal nears completion, all eyes will be on whether Cacace’s undoubted talent and headline-grabbing temperament can help propel Wrexham to new heights in the fiercely competitive world of English football.