Wrexham have focused on experienced signings this summer, but also showed an interest in one promising young talent.
Phil Parkinson likes to sign experienced players and has continued that thinking during this summer’s transfer window.
Wrexham have now signed nine players this summer, with four of them over the age of 30.
Danny Ward, Josh Windass, Conor Coady and Kieffer Moore have been snapped up to add more experience to a battle-tested Wrexham squad.
Wrexham also need to look towards the future, with George Thomason and Liberato Cacace the youngest signings at 24.
Wrexham did also look at one exciting teenager, but have now seen him join a Championship rival.
- READ MORE: Wrexham’s confirmed transfers in 2025 summer window, incomings, outgoings and latest rumours
Shay Reid signs for Preston North End after Wrexham interest
Reports back in June suggested that Cliftonville striker Shay Reid was a Wrexham target.
Reid had emerged as a real goalscoring talent in Northern Ireland, and Wrexham were battling Celtic in the race for his signature.
Preston North End then took Reid on trial over the summer, and he even scored twice in an Under-18 game against Wrexham.
Wrexham were surely impressed with Reid’s display, but PNE have now won the race for his signature.
North End have confirmed Reid’s arrival on a two-year scholarship deal, with a one-year professional contract already agreed.
PNE will also have a one-year option on that deal, with Reid now given the chance to push towards North End’s first team.
Long-term Wrexham target Michael Smith joined PNE this summer and, if Reid progresses as hoped, they could form a strike pairing at Deepdale in the future.
Shay Reid on PNE move
Reid has certainly caught the eye on trial at PNE, and the prospect of first-team opportunities may arrive sooner than expected.
16-year-old striker Michael Ayodele has been on the bench in North End’s last two games after joining from Burnley over the summer.
Reid may have a chance to impress Paul Heckingbottom, and he has reflected on a proud day in his burgeoning career.
Speaking to PNE’s official website, Reid admitted that it’s a ‘huge honour’ to join North End, and he can’t wait to pull on the shirt as a permanent PNE player.
“I’m so excited and honoured to be in this position today, signing for Preston North End,” said Reid.
“It’s a huge honour to be joining a club with such history, passion, and incredible supporters. I can’t wait to give everything on the pitch and make the fans proud every time I wear the shirt.
I need to give a massive thanks to my family, previous clubs, coaches and FullNinety for the part you’ve all played in this move. I aim to make every one of you proud,” he added.
Wrexham may be disappointed to miss out on Reid, but youth recruitment will continue to be important moving forward, after Connor Thorley joined Wrexham over the summer.