Wrexham face another significant summer transfer window after coming agonisingly close to securing a Championship play-off spot during their first season in the second tier for 43 years. The Welsh club finished just two points behind Hull City following a 2-2 draw with Middlesbrough on the final day of the campaign.
Summer Overhaul Not Required, But Key Areas Need Strengthening
After making 19 signings last summer to overhaul the squad that won promotion from League One, manager Phil Parkinson does not require another rebuild. However, several positions need reinforcement to push for Premier League promotion next season.
Goalkeeper and Defence
Wrexham alternated between Arthur Okonkwo and Danny Ward as their first-choice goalkeeper throughout the season. The club may opt to sign an undisputed number one, or Okonkwo could be given another opportunity after largely impressing in his debut Championship season. Both keepers are entering the final years of their contracts, so decisions on their futures will indicate Parkinson's preferred option. Third-choice goalkeeper Callum Burton may be moved on after featuring only twice, both in the League Cup.
In defence, Wrexham are well covered centrally with Callum Doyle, Dan Scarr, captain Dom Hyam, Max Cleworth and Zak Vyner competing for places. However, the side lacks depth out wide, especially with Issa Kabore's loan from Manchester City expiring. At least three wing-backs are needed, making a temporary or permanent deal for Kabore a sensible move. Wrexham could also revisit their interest in Republic of Ireland international Festy Ebosele and Portsmouth's Terry Devlin to bolster options. Liberato Cacace will return on the left after representing New Zealand at the World Cup, allowing George Thomason to become a backup again or return to a more natural midfield role.
Midfield
Matty James remained a mainstay in midfield last season but turns 35 this summer, so a replacement is required. Harry Winks shares a similar profile, has recent experience of winning Premier League promotion with Leicester City, and would be available after their relegation to League One.
Further forward, Wrexham are among the clubs credited with an interest in Dunkerque attacking midfielder Enzo Bardeli. As a free agent at the end of the season, the Lille academy product looks set to leave Ligue 2 after a breakout campaign, scoring ten goals and assisting seven across all competitions.
Attack
Up front, Wrexham need to ease the burden on Kiefer Moore and Sam Smith. After links to Ibrahim Diabate last winter, they could revisit their interest if Alaves do not sign the striker permanently from GAIS at the end of his loan spell. Diabate scored the only goal in a 1-0 win over Barcelona, just his second strike since arriving, but the Spanish side are only a point above the relegation zone. If Alaves go down, Wrexham could swoop for the joint top goalscorer in Sweden last season, provided no other Spanish club takes an interest.
