Phil Parkinson could launch an ambitious move at Wrexham for a player who has recently left a Championship side.
Wrexham’s transfer business ahead of their League One campaign is in full swing. Phil Parkinson’s priority was signing a new number-one goalkeeper.
Luckily, Arsenal made Arthur Okonkwo available following his release from the Emirates and the Reds rushed to snap him up on a free transfer.
The 22-year-old was their first excellent addition of the summer and he’s been followed by the signing of centre-back Lewis Brunt, who joins from Premier League side Leicester City.
Brunt, aged 23, will add serious competition to Parkinson’s defensive ranks after Wrexham saw multiple experienced defenders get released from the club in May.
Now that strength has been added in goal and at centre-back, the next position on Parkinson’s agenda looks pretty obvious.
Wrexham’s next priority should be a new left-back
Wrexham’s left-back department is arguably the only position in the squad that is looking light on the ground.
Whilst there are multiple options to pick from in goal, centre-back, right-back, midfield and striker, the Reds’ only current starting left-back is Jacob Mendy – and he’s set to miss the opening weeks of the season.
James McClean did fill in regularly for the Gambian last term and flourished as a wing-back in Parkinson’s system, although the Irishman is seen more as a central midfielder.
Wrexham have been linked with released Wigan Athletic defender Tom Pearce to fill that void and most recently, Hull City’s Ryan Longman, who is also capable of playing there.
However, there is one player available on a free transfer who the Reds should be looking at signing.
Wrexham need to snap up Louie Sibley on a free transfer
Derby County announced yesterday that Louie Sibley would be leaving, putting an end to his 14-year association with the Rams.
The 22-year-old was offered a new contract at his boyhood club, although he declined it and is now seeking an opportunity elsewhere.
Rotherham have previously been linked with a move for the youngster however, Wrexham should throw their name into the hat and attempt to prise Sibley to the STōK Cae Ras.
Sibley played a starring role for Paul Warne last term as Derby sealed their return to the Championship. The academy graduate played 44 times in all competitions, predominantly as a left-wing back, and produced six goals and four assists.
The Englishman is naturally a winger or attacking midfielder but Warne found a place for the “unbelievable” talent at left wing-back.
This was where he flourished as a driving force for Derby down the left, showing his ability to play as a left-back in a four-man defence or a wing-back in a five-at-the-back system.
At Wrexham, Sibley wouldn’t have to worry about playing as a left back as Parkinson rarely, if ever, switches from his tried and trusted 5-3-2 system.
With 80 League One appearances under his belt and the potential to reach even greater heights, Wrexham should rush to snap up a promotion-winning talent on a free transfer.