Paul Mullin is on loan at Wigan Athletic, but the Wrexham striker’s long-term future is far from clear.
The ever-evolving nature of Wrexham means wholesale changes continue to be made at the Racecourse Ground.
Among the latest victims of the Dragons’ meteoric rise up the EFL was club icon, Paul Mullin.
Phil Parkinson decided Mullin was no longer needed in the second half of the 2024/25 season, which saw Wrexham win promotion from League One.
He joined Wigan Athletic on a season-long loan deal in June, but one forgotten clause in that deal could have a big impact on his future before next summer rolls around.
Wrexham hold power over Paul Mullin future
An insight into Mullin’s loan move to Wigan was provided by journalist Nathan Salt this summer.
Among the details shared were the fact that the Latics do not have an option to buy the striker next year.
Wrexham, meanwhile, are still paying half of the striker’s £5,800-a-week wages following his transfer.
Perhaps most importantly, however, it was shared that Mullin can be recalled once the 2026 January transfer window opens.
Salt said: “I’m led to believe: 50/50 on the wages, no option to buy there, recall option in January.”
What should Wrexham do with Paul Mullin?
In an ideal world, most fans would no doubt love to see the striker return to the Racecourse Ground and get back into the team.
Mullin wants to play in the Championship with Wrexham, even if it’s just for one game.
However, Parkinson has changed up his system this season and now operates with just one out-and-out striker.
That role is currently held by Kieffer Moore, with Ryan Hardie and the man who replaced Mullin in the team last season, Sam Smith, acting as back-up options.
It means that barring a serious injury crisis, it’s unlikely we will see the 30-year-old make a return early next year.
However, Wrexham may wish to recall the centre-forward in January if there’s the possibility of a sale.
The Dragons have made an unwanted habit of terminating players’ contracts so they can leave for free – see Ollie Palmer and George Evans this summer.
It’s not good business long-term, and if they are to remain in the Championship for several seasons, they need to start taking more care when it comes to player sales.
Wigan fans have been speaking about signing Mullin permanently in the winter window.
Whether that happens remains to be seen, but the fact that Wrexham have the option to recall the striker means a permanent sale is an option.
Supporters will likely be crushed once the 110-goal attacker leaves for good, but barring some ridiculous form from Mullin in the coming months or a major change of heart from Parkinson, that is nothing more than a dream.