Wrexham Close to Major Coup as Josh Windass Agrees Terms Ahead of Championship Campaign

Wrexham, Wales – Wrexham AFC have agreed terms with experienced striker Josh Windass, with a medical scheduled for Monday as the Welsh club prepares for their first Championship season in decades. The 31-year-old forward is set to join as a free agent following the mutual termination of his contract with financially-troubled Sheffield Wednesday.

Deal Details and Competition

Windass held remote discussions with Wrexham over the past 72 hours, including direct talks with manager Phil Parkinson during the club’s pre-season tour of Australia and New Zealand. Despite late interest from Norwich City and Coventry City, who are reportedly making final attempts to hijack the deal, Wrexham appear to have secured their target.

The striker had set himself a weekend deadline to decide his future and has chosen the Hollywood-backed Welsh club over several higher-profile suitors, including Leicester City, Norwich City, and Derby County.

Statistical Profile and Recent Form

Windass brings significant Championship experience to Wrexham, having scored 46 goals in 163 appearances for Sheffield Wednesday across all competitions. His most recent campaign saw him net 13 goals in the Championship, demonstrating his ability to find the net at the second tier of English football.

The forward’s career statistics showcase his versatility and goal-scoring consistency:

• Total Sheffield Wednesday record: 46 goals in 163 games (0.28 goals per game)
• 2023-24 Championship season: 13 goals
• Previous experience: Rangers, Accrington Stanley, and Hull City

What This Means for Wrexham

The signing represents a statement of intent from Wrexham as they prepare for life in the Championship following back-to-back promotions. Windass’s experience at this level will be crucial for a club making the jump from League Two to the Championship in just two seasons.

Key implications:

• Championship pedigree: Windass provides proven second-tier experience
• Goal threat: His 13 Championship goals last season offer immediate attacking threat
• Leadership: At 31, he brings veteran presence to a rapidly evolving squad
• Flexibility: Can operate across multiple forward positions

Summer Recruitment Drive

Windass is set to become the latest addition to Wrexham’s ambitious summer recruitment drive as they prepare for the step up in quality. The striker will join:

• Danny Ward – Wales international goalkeeper
• Ryan Hardie – Forward from Plymouth Argyle
• Liberato Cacace – Defender from Wellington Phoenix

This recruitment strategy demonstrates the club’s commitment to building a squad capable of competing in the Championship, backed by Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

International Interest and Background

The deal comes after Windass attracted interest from Brazilian giants Santos in January, with then-manager Pedro Caixinha driving the approach based on their previous relationship at Rangers. This international attention underlines the striker’s reputation beyond English football.

Windass’s journey to Wrexham follows a challenging period at Sheffield Wednesday, where financial difficulties led to the mutual termination of his contract despite his consistent goal-scoring record.

Championship Implications

For Wrexham, securing a player of Windass’s caliber represents more than just adding goals to their attack. His Championship experience will be invaluable as the club navigates its first season at this level since the 1970s.

The signing also sends a message to other potential targets that Wrexham can compete for established Championship players, potentially opening doors for further high-profile acquisitions before the transfer window closes.

With the medical scheduled for Monday, Windass could be available for Wrexham’s remaining pre-season fixtures as they continue their preparation for what promises to be a historic Championship campaign.