Wrexham AFC, under the ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, has achieved promotion once more, marking their third consecutive rise through the English football leagues. While this consistent success is remarkable, the looming question is whether this momentum can be sustained in the demanding Championship.
In the lower tiers, Wrexham benefited significantly from superior financial power and the ability to attract established players willing to drop down a division for the project. However, the Championship features historical clubs and teams supported by substantial Premier League `parachute payments`, considerably reducing Wrexham`s comparative financial edge.
Beyond finances, the current squad, while strong enough to dominate League One (featuring talents who often play at a higher level), might not possess the necessary `star power` or depth required for the second tier. Their performance metrics in League One suggested a strong team, but perhaps not one overwhelmingly superior to the competition, highlighting the need for increased quality. Fortunately, the celebrity status of the owners provides a unique allure for potential signings. So, as `season five` approaches with Wrexham entering the Championship, who could be the new additions to the squad?
1. The Midfield Maestro, James Ward-Prowse
Wrexham`s ascension from the National League has been founded on convincing relatively high-profile players that the financial offer and media attention at the Racecourse Ground make the step down worthwhile. Their current roster includes many players capable of performing in the Championship, but the focus must now shift to attracting talent from the Premier League or those recently relegated. West Ham United could potentially offer a suitable candidate.
In the top flight, James Ward-Prowse is sometimes perceived as lacking dynamism in open play, particularly in defensive coverage. However, in the Championship, his exceptional attributes – pinpoint passing from deep, lethal set-piece delivery, and powerful long-range shots – could elevate him to superstar status. Imagine the crowd`s reaction at the Racecourse when he scores his first free kick from distance! And the appeal for streaming service subscribers replaying those moments.
2. The Welsh Great, Ben Davies
Signing Ben Davies might be slightly premature for one of the most respected Welsh players of his generation, a constant presence during Wales` successful tournament qualification campaigns (Euros 2016, 2020, World Cup 2022). Currently, Davies remains a reliable squad member at Tottenham Hotspur, having featured regularly before the end of the season.
Reports indicate Spurs are likely to activate an extension clause in Davies` contract, securing him until the summer of 2026. However, the 32-year-old is not a guaranteed starter in manager Ange Postecoglou`s first eleven and that situation might not change. Could a return to his home country, securing a regular starting role on the left of Phil Parkinson`s defensive three, be an appealing proposition?
3. The Wild Card, Jamie Vardy
This potential transfer seems almost too perfect to ignore. It would be genuinely surprising if Jamie Vardy wasn`t lining up for Wrexham next season. The seasoned striker, known for his distinctive personality (like celebrating with Skittles vodka) and his history with high-profile media attention – he`s a content goldmine!
Even purely as a footballing investment, Vardy represents an astute signing for a 38-year-old. Scoring seven Premier League goals is a testament to his enduring quality, and his non-penalty expected goals stat (0.3 per 90 minutes) this season in the top flight is noteworthy. While Wrexham aren`t aiming for Premier League-level talent just yet, acquiring a veteran striker who possesses vast knowledge of the Championship and generates significant media interest is an excellent strategic move.
4. The Really Wild Card, Sergio Ramos
Securing one of the most charismatic and successful footballers of the last two decades would undoubtedly present a significant financial challenge for Reynolds` accountant, especially given Ramos` reported $5.7 million contract at Monterrey running until 2026. But what is the purpose of all that Deadpool fortune if not to bring a World Cup-winning, four-time European champion defender to The Racecourse Ground?
It would be a truly extraordinary, wild card acquisition that few could have predicted. As the man himself might put it, “I will love it and I think I deserve it.”
5. The Talent Punt, Dele Alli
This narrative practically writes itself: the former golden boy of English football attempting to rediscover the form that once made him one of the most exciting talents in the country. There was a period in 2016 and 2017 when Dele Alli was frequently linked with a move to Real Madrid, and those rumours felt entirely plausible. He was a dynamic attacking midfielder with the world at his feet in a Tottenham team that seemed destined for consistent trophy challenges.
His career trajectory has since changed significantly, but securing even a fraction of the player Dele was at his peak would provide a substantial talent boost. Serie A club Como is reportedly taking a gamble on him too, though his time there has been hampered by injuries and suspensions. It might be challenging to convince Dele to leave a setup under Cesc Fabregas in a city arguably offering more attractions for a young millionaire than Wrexham`s local amenities, but initiating contact certainly couldn`t hurt.
Dominic Ashworth