Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson has already been told a key reason why he should land one of his ‘intelligent’ targets this summer.
Excitement is brewing for Wrexham supporters ahead of their first campaign back in League One for almost two decades, and that excitement is complemented by their transfer business so far.
The Reds have announced the signings of goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo and centre-back Lewis Brunt while handing new contracts to key first-teamers, George Evans and Max Cleworth.
Phil Parkinson’s business isn’t stopping there though as the 56-year-old has already admitted further additions are in the pipeline, and one of those could be Ryan Longman.
On Monday, it was reported that Wrexham were interested in signing the Hull City player, joining Millwall and Birmingham City in the race for his signature.
Capturing Longman would be a statement of intent and Parkinson has already been told why he should snap up the 23-year-old.
Gary Rowett highlights Ryan Longman’s versatility
Hull signed Longman permanently in January 2022 following a successful six-month loan spell and for the Tigers, he’s been utilised as a utility player, filling in the necessary gaps.
Although his game time decreased significantly under Liam Rosenior last term, Longman has played in a multitude of positions in East Yorkshire, including as a right wing-back, left wing-back, left winger and striker.
In a loan spell at Millwall last term, where he scored three goals in 35 appearances, manager Gary Rowett noticed his versatility, claiming that was the reason they brought him to the club.
Speaking to London News Online in September 2023, Rowett said: “He’s a young player – we bought him in for his versatility.
“You know he can play left wing-back, right wing-back, he can play up front. He can play anywhere, sort of, in that attacking area.
“He’s just a really good footballer, he’s an intelligent footballer. He’ll be a great addition. He’s a good character as well. His family are from this neck of the woods so I’m sure getting back home and back down south I, think probably gives a player a more settled feeling.”
Ryan Longman’s versatility would be crucial for Wrexham
Longman played his best football at Hull as a left-wing back, a similar role to what Jacob Mendy currently plays for Wrexham.
As previously mentioned, the Englishman can also operate in various other positions and Parkinson loves individuals who can offer that versatility.
During his time on loan at AFC Wimbledon in 2020/21, Longman was predominantly used as a striker and scored nine goals in League One.
That is a return greater than what Ollie Palmer and Steven Fletcher managed for the Reds last term, and they’re two natural centre-forwards.
With Paul Mullin set to miss the start of the season and the desire to add depth at wing-back, Longman could be the perfect player to play those two roles.
Therefore, landing him ahead of Millwall and Birmingham would be a fantastic piece of business.