Wrexham 'agree club record deal' for Premier League star but huge issue plunges deal into doubt

Reports in the press are suggesting that a wage-structure dispute is preventing Championship new boys Wrexham from signing a Premier League midfielder.

The Red Dragons have taken centre stage since being taken over by Hollywood stars Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds in 2021.

The duo have since overseen a remarkable rise up the English football pyramid, and the club secured promotion to the second tier of English football last term.

Their incredible journey has seen significant investment into the playing squad, and now they are being linked with a move for a Nottingham Forest midfielder.

The Sun are saying that the Welsh side have agreed a club-record deal for English midfielder Lewis O’Brien, who spent the second half of last season on loan at Swansea City.

O’Brien has only made 13 Premier League appearances during his career, scoring one goal.

Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney have owned Wrexham since 2021. Image: Getty

However, he took to the field 16 times for the Swans last term, scoring one goal and impressing with his all-round performances.

The reports suggest that the 26-year-old could return to Wales next season, but with Wrexham instead of Swansea.

The Sun have stated that Reynolds' side have offered £5 million for the midfielder's services, a remarkable fee considering the club were playing in the National League as recently as 2023.

However, apparently the club and O’Brien are struggling to agree personal terms.

Wrexham have already had a busy summer as they prepare to play Championship football during the 2025/26 campaign.

They have signed Ryan Hardie and Leicester City goalkeeper Danny Ward but sent their former star striker Paul Mullin on loan to Wigan.

Wrexham will get their season underway against Southampton, who were relegated from the Premier League last term.

The match will be held at St Mary's on the 9th of August.