Wrexham are looking to assemble a squad of Championship-proven players, with Barry Bannan on their list.
Despite their usual hesitance to complete deals early, the Red Dragons have already made one addition this summer.
Wrexham signed Ryan Hardie from Plymouth Argyle on June 16, completing a cut-price deal for the centre-forward.
As well as Hardie, several more stars who have proven themselves in the Championship already are being eyed.
Fellow striker Callum Robinson is a transfer target, while recent reports have suggested Wrexham want Barry Bannan from Sheffield Wednesday.
Wrexham target Barry Bannan on leaving Sheffield Wednesday
Wrexham tried to sign Michael Smith from the Owls on several occasions and have now seemingly found another player they want from the Yorkshire outfit.
The Scottish star is a serious workhorse, bringing a similar energy to what we saw from Ollie Rathbone in 2024/25, and like Rathbone, he has an eye for goal.
However, convincing the player to leave Hillsborough may be easier said than done, even with his ongoing contract situation.
Bannan spoke about transfer interest and leaving his long-time side in February 2025, as per the All Wednesday show, but he seemed very keen to stay at the time.
He said: “I think my agents probably hate me because I’ve never entertained a move – as crazy as that might sound. Obviously my agents have been to me before and told me that there are clubs interested in me, but it’s never once been a conversation with them to go and see what’s in it. I just get on with it.
“They obviously have to tell me, that’s their job, but it’s not something I’ve entertained because I’ve always had a goal at this club that I set for myself. I’ve always enjoyed it here.
“So because I’ve never entertained it, nothing’s ever got to a point where it’s been close… I’ve just left it in the background. Maybe my agents were fuming with me at the time, but I’ve never wanted to leave, ever. Not at any point in my career here.”
Barry Bannan wage at Sheffield Wednesday
Bannan is due to become a free agent at the end of June if his contract with the Owls does not get renewed.
Currently, Capology reports that the player is taking home £1.25m a year, or £24,038-a-week with the Yorkshire club.
Wrexham are ready to pay high wages for new signings this summer, with Bannan’s salary fitting firmly into that zone.
