Hollywood-owned Wrexham AFC are plotting a decisive January transfer window as they aim to transform their remarkable Championship campaign into a genuine push for the Premier League.
Solid Foundations and a £12m Problem
The Red Dragons, under the ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have solidified their position in England's second tier. As the international break commenced in mid-November, Phil Parkinson's squad found themselves in 13th place in the Championship table, riding high on an unbeaten run of five matches.
With 15 games played, the team's record stands at five victories, six draws, and four losses, leaving them just four points adrift of the play-off positions. After a shaky start that prompted speculation over Parkinson's future, a statement 3-2 victory over league-leaders Coventry on Halloween signalled their upward trajectory.
This impressive standing follows a summer where the club invested a staggering £33 million on 13 new players after achieving a third consecutive promotion from League One. However, a significant headache has emerged despite this heavy spending.
The bargain £2 million signing of Welsh international Kieffer Moore has proven a masterstroke, with the striker netting nine times in 17 matches. The concern for Parkinson is the lack of a natural, like-for-like replacement for the 33-year-old target man. This is a pressing issue given that the club's other attacking options, valued at over £12 million, do not adequately cover Moore's unique role, especially after Ollie Palmer's summer departure.
January Transfer Targets and Potential Departures
Chief executive Michael Williamson has confirmed the club's intention to bolster the squad in January. One potential solution to the striker backup problem could be Sparta Rotterdam's Tobias Lauritsen. The six-foot-four Norwegian has a proven track record, scoring in double digits in the Eredivisie for three consecutive seasons. With his contract expiring next summer, he represents a potential value signing and was previously linked with Hull City and Millwall.
Wrexham's rapid ascent has necessitated difficult farewells to club legends. The striking duo of Paul Mullin and Ollie Palmer, who scored over 150 goals combined during the climb from the National League, were moved on this summer. Mullin joined Wigan Athletic on loan, while Palmer made a permanent switch to Swindon Town.
Another high-profile exit could be on the cards. Former Premier League ace James McClean has seen his playing time reduced and recently admitted he is not enjoying his stint at the club as much as before, openly considering a potential career change. A return to his boyhood club, Derry City, is a possibility for the 36-year-old.
Bolstering the Defence for the Promotion Chase
After regaining their defensive solidity, Wrexham's backline has been key to their recent form. The performances of Dom Hyam, signed from Blackburn Rovers, have been central to this improvement. Academy graduate Max Cleworth has adapted admirably, and Dan Scarr has also impressed in the defensive trio.
Nevertheless, injuries and inconsistent form have highlighted a need for reinforcement. Lewis Brunt's thigh injury, combined with Conor Coady's unexpectedly subpar performances and Callum Doyle's inconsistent start, means additional defensive support is a priority.
Bristol City's Zak Vyner, a target in the summer, could be revisited. The Robins rejected several offers for the 28-year-old centre-back, but with his contract due to expire at the end of the season, the Championship club might be persuaded to sell in January.
As the winter window approaches, the ambitions at the Racecourse Ground are clear. The owners have already silenced many sceptics, and with strategic additions in January, Wrexham's dream of a fourth consecutive promotion and an unlikely charge towards the Premier League could become a reality.
