**Tom Brady Urges Birmingham City to Step Up Amid Wrexham’s Ambitious Spending**
Birmingham City’s American investor Tom Brady has issued a rallying cry to his club, as competition in the transfer market intensifies with Wrexham’s headline-making owners, Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds. Following a thrilling season that saw Birmingham pip Wrexham to the League One title, both clubs are now preparing for a fresh challenge in the Championship—each with serious ambitions and wallet power to match.
Wrexham’s recent transfer activity has caught the attention of many in the football community, having secured promotion from League One in a highly competitive campaign. With six new signings already through the door, Wrexham’s summer spending nears £11 million, underlining their commitment to building a squad fit for a return to the second tier. Speculation persists that their total outlay could exceed £18 million if they land Wales international Nathan Broadhead from Ipswich Town, reportedly for a club-record £7.5 million.
Meanwhile, Birmingham City have shown intent with the acquisition of eight new players ahead of their Championship return. Among their recruits are former Celtic star Kyogo Furuhashi, arriving from Rennes in a deal estimated at £8 million, and Taylor Gardner-Hickman, whose move from Bristol City has been made permanent for a reported £1.5 million. However, there is clear recognition from within the club that their business must keep pace if they are to rival the ambition—and spending—of their Welsh counterparts.
Speaking on The Sports Agents podcast, NFL legend and Birmingham investor Tom Brady acknowledged the strides made by Wrexham since the arrival of their high-profile owners. “We’ve got to keep investing. Wrexham have done an incredible job,” Brady observed. He praised the Welsh club, noting, “You can’t help but feel inspired by the transformation they’ve sparked, both on and off the pitch. Their whole operation is something to admire.”
Brady also alluded to the burgeoning rivalry between the two clubs, a fixture some are now dubbing the ‘Hollywood Derby’ in reference to the showbusiness backgrounds of the clubs’ backers. “There’s a healthy dose of banter between us—perhaps even the odd friendly wager—but ultimately, what matters is what happens on the pitch. The players are the ones who will decide the outcome.”
Wrexham’s owners have not shied away from ambition since taking charge, attracting global attention through their documentary series and by building a competitive squad. Manager Phil Parkinson, too, has become a central figure in their rise, overseeing their consecutive promotions and now tasked with navigating the volatile waters of Championship football.
Birmingham’s journey has not been without its setbacks. The club’s drop to the third tier marked a low point, coming after Wayne Rooney’s short tenure as manager. Under Chris Davies’ guidance, however, Birmingham staged a remarkable turnaround, clinching the League One title with a record 111 points. Reflecting on their comeback, Brady highlighted the importance of learning from adversity. “Challenges are part of growth. When I reflect on those tough years, I’m proud of what the club achieved by pushing through difficult times,” he said.
Looking to the future, Brady expressed confidence in Birmingham’s current setup and ambition. Supporters will be hoping the likes of Kyogo and Gardner-Hickman can build on last season’s momentum as the team eyes a push for the Premier League, a feat Brady himself described as “daunting but achievable”.
The summer transfer window promises to keep the rivalry simmering, with both sides linked to further big-name signings. Wrexham are reportedly courting Leicester captain Conor Coady and Wales striker Kieffer Moore, signalling there may be more Hollywood drama to come before the new season kicks off.
As anticipation builds ahead of the new campaign, stakeholders and supporters from both camps are united by one thing—high expectations and the dream of reaching the Premier League. With two ambitious clubs led by globally recognisable figures, all eyes will be on the Championship for what promises to be an enthralling showdown both on the balance sheet and the pitch.