TRANSFER WATCH: Wrexham Eye Daring Swoop for Former Target Marc Leonard Amid Birmingham Uncertainty
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson is wasting no time in the summer transfer market and a new central midfielder is high on his priority list.
With the exciting arrival of striker Ryan Hardie from Plymouth Argyle already confirmed, the Dragons are gearing up for what could be a major summer rebuild after achieving a stunning third consecutive promotion.
Backed by co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, Wrexham reportedly have a £25 million transfer budget, giving Parkinson the firepower to chase ambitious targets. The club has already splashed £700,000 on Hardie, and reports suggest a £3 million move for Wolves midfielder Tommy Doyle is also in the works a fee that would break Wrexham’s transfer record.
But Doyle might not be the only midfield addition. One familiar name resurfacing on Wrexham’s radar is Marc Leonard, a player Parkinson considered last summer.
Leonard’s Future at Birmingham in Doubt
Leonard joined Birmingham City from Brighton last year after strong loan spells with Northampton Town. However, his first season with the Blues didn’t go as planned. He featured in 34 League One games, but only started 14, and a recent report by Birmingham Live casts serious doubt over his role in the upcoming season.
The report even noted that manager Chris Davies was visibly frustrated with Leonard’s performances, describing moments when he “scolded” Leonard like a disappointed teacher a telling sign of strained confidence.
Now, with Birmingham expected to invest heavily in their midfield, Leonard’s minutes could dwindle further opening a potential door for Wrexham.
Why Wrexham Should Make Their Move
They’ve Done the Scouting Already
Wrexham were heavily linked with Leonard last summer. While it’s unclear if an official bid was made, it’s safe to assume the club did thorough research on the 24-year-old. Parkinson now has another full season of data to assess whether Leonard still fits the plan.
His Numbers Show Promise
Despite limited game time, Leonard still managed 4 assists and maintained an impressive 85% pass accuracy. His creativity and ball retention could be exactly what Wrexham need in the middle of the park.
A Loan-to-Buy Deal Makes Sense
If Birmingham City bring in more midfielders, Leonard could fall further down the pecking order or even become surplus to requirements. That scenario could open the door for a loan-to-buy arrangement, which may appeal to both clubs. Last summer, Leonard cost Birmingham around £500,000 and if they’re willing to negotiate, Wrexham could land a high-upside player for a smart price.
With uncertainty swirling around Leonard’s future at Birmingham, Wrexham could seize the moment and bring in a creative, technically sound midfielder who still has plenty of room to grow. And with the budget to back it, Parkinson may just be ready to pull the trigger on this bold move.
