Phil Parkinson is still in the market for a new striker at Wrexham and one ‘magnificent’ player should take his fancy.
Wrexham have spent most of this transfer window solidifying their defence but now Phil Parkinson is keen to add some quality to his attack.
With Paul Mullin on his path to full fitness, the Reds want to sign a player who can rival the Liverpudlian while also playing alongside him.
In recent weeks, Wrexham have been linked to a host of forwards, including John McAtee, Bailey Cadamarteri, Will Lankshear and Kieron Bowie; all of whom are available for a loan.
A loan is a sensible option for the Reds to explore as it saves them from forking out on transfer fees however, there is one free agent who Parkinson should snap up.
Wrexham should sign free-agent striker Aaron Connolly
Many will remember Aaron Connolly at Brighton when he announced his name to the Premier League with a brace against Tottenham in the 2019/20 season.
Since then, the 24-year-old’s career has taken a downward spiral as a mixture of injuries and off-field troubles have prevented him from kicking on.
Connolly was sent out on loan to Middlesbrough in 2021/22, where he scored just twice in 19 appearances before a less-than-eventful spell played out at Spezia in 2022/23, failing to score in five matches.
The Republic of Ireland sharp-shooter did show some glimpses of his talent at Hull City last term, producing eight goals in 28 Championship appearances however, injuries and off-field issues continued to impact his progression.
He was released from his one-year contract as a result and is now looking for another club, with Wrexham the ideal destination for the striker.
Why Phil Parkinson can get the best out of Aaron Connolly
Connolly is the type of striker Wrexham need; he’s quick, possesses clever movement in behind and a calmness in front of goal.
Although his recent track record isn’t great, with his attitude off the pitch impacting his performances on it, Parkinson could be the manager to turn his career around. He’s a great man manager and getting a tune out of a talent like Connolly could appeal to him.
Previously, Wrexham have signed many players from higher divisions, including Paul Mullin, Elliot Lee, Tom O’Connor and even former international teammate, James McClean.
For a striker of his calibre, it may not be appealing for Connolly to drop down to League One however, against defences at this level, he would have a field day.
Plus, their immediate ambition is to challenge for promotion out of the third tier and if the diminutive forward can knuckle down and show he means business, he could earn a move elsewhere.
Irishmen McClean and O’Connor can also help bed him in at the Racecourse Ground and as seen in the past, Wrexham is the perfect environment for a player to thrive.
On a free transfer, signing a striker Alan Shearer once labelled ‘magnificent’ would be a low-risk move, though it can deliver big rewards for Wrexham in their pursuit of promotion.