Wrexham have missed out on the signing of Brighton & Hove midfielder Marc Leonard after Fabrizio Romano confirmed the 22-year-old is set to join Birmingham City.
The Red Dragons are about to embark on their first season in League One since 2005. Of course, their return to the third tier is well documented. The financial clout handed to them from the Hollywood ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney has helped them secure back-to-back promotions as they continue to steamroll towards their long-term aim of Premier League football.
Another big summer in the transfer market has been expected and five signings have arrived at STōK Cae Ras so far. One of last season’s heroes Arthur Okonkwo joined on a permanent basis after his successful loan spell, followed by fellow goalkeeper Callum Burton. Manager Phil Parkinson has also brought in Lewis Brunt from Leicester City, who enjoyed promotion with Mansfield Town last season.
Perhaps the most eye-catching signing has been that of former Charlton Athletic captain George Dobson. The 26-year-old was offered new terms at The Valley following the expiration of his existing deal, but opted to leave in favour of a move to Wales.
Sky Sports reported in May that Wrexham were keen to bring in Marc Leonard to strengthen their midfield options, although were facing competition from the Championship. The former Scotland under-21 international has spent the last two seasons at Northampton Town, winning the club’s Player of the Season in April.
His form at Sixfields saw him become hot property for clubs in the second and third tier, with Barnsley, Cardiff City, Plymouth Argyle and Preston North End all linked with the player.
Fresh reports emerged earlier this month that Wrexham had held talks with Leonard over a potential transfer, although League One giants Birmingham City had also joined the race. It now appears as if he has opted to join the revolution at St Andrews, with the Blues having agreed a £500,000 fee with Brighton.
Renowned journalist Romano states that a medical has been completed and a deal is set to be signed.
Writer’s View
Wrexham’s business so far has been decent, but landing Leonard ahead of so many other clubs would have been a huge signal of intent. The Red Dragons have been able to use their financial muscle to manoeuvre their way through the National League and League Two but have seemingly met their match with Birmingham.
The Blues are on a different trajectory from their new league rivals, having suffered relegation from the Championship last season. However, they are determined to make their stay in League One a short one. Having spent over £10 million thus far, they are going to take some stopping. Leonard is a player that will add serious quality to their squad, and he is proven at this level
