Wrexham succumbed to their first defeat of pre-season at the hands of Sydney FC.
Despite bright performances from James McClean and Ryan Longman, on the whole Wrexham were far from their best and went down 2-1 thanks to a late strike from Joe Lacey.
Phil Parkinson has been frustrated in the transfer market so far with a number of targets opting for Championship rivals instead.
Tommy Doyle signed for Birmingham City after interest from the Red Dragons but two of Parkinson’s stars have just made it very clear where his next move must be within his Wrexham squad.
Phil Parkinson must prioritise central midfield in Wrexham’s transfer business
Parkinson has hinted at imminent signings but there is no doubt that he would have liked more than just two signings to have joined the club’s tour of Australia.
Following Ollie Rathbone’s injury concern during the clash with Sydney, central midfield has now become even more of a priority for Wrexham.
Sebastian Revan replaced Rathbone in the left central midfield position and looked painfully out of his depth in the role.
Revan looked uncomfortable in possession and would be nowhere near ready to play the role in the season opener against Southampton.
Should Rathbone’s injury keep him out for the start of the campaign, it is imperative that Parkinson brings a midfield acquisition through the door.
Wrexham’s central midfield targets
Tom Cairney was the initial target at the start of the window, however, the Scottish international has committed his future to Fulham for another season.
Wrexham have agreed a fee for Lewis O’Brien but are struggling to agree personal terms with the Nottingham Forest star.
Stuart Armstrong is a player the club have held talks with following his release from Sheffield Wednesday, whilst Tom Lawrence and Charlie Savage have been long-term targets for the Red Dragons.
There is an expectation that more than one central midfielder will come into the club this summer but replacing Rathbone’s energy in that role will not be easy.