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Wrexham target Premier League talent to kick-start next phase of project
Exclusive: Newly-promoted Championship club want Fulham’s Tom Cairney to add high-level experience to Phil Parkinson’s squad
Wrexham have made an approach for Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney in a sign of their ambition following promotion to the Championship.
Discussions over a deal for the 34-year-old are in the early stages but should they progress it would see Cairney move on a free transfer with competitive wages for the second tier.
The Welsh club, whose rise from non-league football under Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney has been documented on Disney+, are planning to bolster Phil Parkinson’s squad after automatic promotion from League One.
Cairney has been capped by Scotland and has made 27 appearances this season, 23 coming in the Premier League, and would give Wrexham’s squad experience of the top flight and promotion from the Championship.
After twice going up with Fulham, Cairney is seen as a player who would add vital midfield quality as Wrexham attempt a stunning hat-trick of EFL promotions in as many years.
Continuing trend at Wrexham
Wrexham have already shown ambition in their rise from the National League, investing in the playing squad and adding players with a wealth of experience. They are captained by James McClean, 36, who played regularly in the Premier League with West Brom. Their forwards include Jay Rodriguez, 35, who was capped by England while at Southampton and joined Wrexham in January from Burnley. Steven Fletcher, 38, played at Wolves and Sunderland in the top-flight.
How is Cairney different?
Looking at the Premier League for transfer targets is a sign that Wrexham are thinking big. While Cairney is a veteran at 34, he is still regularly playing in the top flight and has been an important player at Craven Cottage for the last 10 years. Having conquered League One and Two, the initial signs are that Wrexham are not about to stand still.
What is the attraction?
The fourth season of Welcome To Wrexham starts on Disney+ on Friday, continuing the story of the club’s rise under the ownership under Reynolds and McElhenney. The owners have shown a deep care for the club and the community, with heart-warming moments and drama that have made the show – and Wrexham – popular. There is a lure for players to be part of a project that has been going in one direction: upwards. Given what Ipswich Town achieved in coming out of League One and getting into the Premier League within a year, it shows what is possible.