Wrexham AFC's rising star Max Cleworth is at the centre of a transfer tug-of-war as the club's Hollywood-fueled rise captures global attention. The 21-year-old defender, a product of Wrexham's youth system, has become a hot commodity following his impressive performances under the spotlight of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney's ownership.
The Cleworth Conundrum
Sources close to the club reveal multiple EFL clubs are monitoring Cleworth's situation, with his current contract set to expire this summer. The young centre-back has been instrumental in Wrexham's defensive line, making 27 appearances last season as they secured promotion to League Two.
Hollywood's Dilemma
Reynolds and McElhenney face their first major retention challenge since taking over the Welsh club in 2021. While Wrexham can trigger a one-year extension option, they must decide whether to cash in now or build their future around the homegrown talent.
What's Next for Wrexham?
The Red Dragons' recruitment team is reportedly already identifying potential replacements should Cleworth depart. However, manager Phil Parkinson has made no secret of his desire to keep the promising defender as Wrexham prepare for their second consecutive promotion push.
"Max embodies everything we're trying to build here," Parkinson told local media last month. "Young, talented players developing through our system is crucial to our long-term vision."
