Wrexham AFC are preparing for a pivotal week in the January transfer window following the confirmed departure of club captain James McClean. The veteran winger has left the Racecourse Ground to join his hometown club, Derry City, after a mutual agreement to terminate his contract.
McClean's Exit and Championship Context
The announcement regarding James McClean came on Saturday, ending a key chapter for the player who joined in August 2023. The 36-year-old former Republic of Ireland international is understood to have sought the move due to limited playing time and a desire to finish his career at Derry City.
This significant squad development follows a 2-1 home defeat to Norwich City, which halted Wrexham's four-match winning streak in the Championship. Despite the setback, Phil Parkinson's side remain tenth in the table, just three points from the play-off places, ahead of a crucial Tuesday night fixture against Leicester City.
Parkinson's Striking Dilemma: Paul Mullin's Future
Attention now turns to other potential departures, with talismanic striker Paul Mullin at the centre of speculation. The fan favourite, who has scored 110 goals in 172 appearances for the Red Dragons, found himself out of the starting lineup after last January's arrivals of Sam Smith and Jay Rodriguez.
After a loan spell at Wigan Athletic was cut short this month, Mullin is back at Wrexham. Parkinson has confirmed the club is seeking "the right route" for the 31-year-old until season's end, with another loan move appearing the most likely outcome. Mullin recently featured in a behind-closed-doors friendly against Liverpool to build match fitness.
Midfield Movement: Elliot Lee Seeks Game Time
Another promotion hero, midfielder Elliot Lee, is also expected to depart on loan this month. The 31-year-old has not made a Championship appearance this season and is keen to secure regular football elsewhere.
Manager Phil Parkinson revealed that one potential deal for Lee has already collapsed, but he remains confident other options will emerge before the transfer deadline at 7pm on Monday, February 2. "He wants to go on loan and get some game time so we respect that," Parkinson stated.
Transfer Window Implications for Play-Off Push
With McClean already gone and Mullin and Lee likely to follow, Parkinson faces a delicate balancing act. The manager must manage squad morale and depth while ensuring Wrexham remain competitive in their push for an unlikely Championship play-off spot.
The club has so far only confirmed one other permanent exit: striker Jake Bickerstaff's move to Cheltenham Town. The coming days will be critical in determining whether these potential outgoings are offset by any new signings, as the Welsh side aims to keep its remarkable upward trajectory on track.
