Wrexham, backed by Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have been linked with a record-breaking £2m move for Plymouth Argyle striker Ryan Hardie.
The ambitious move comes as the January transfer window opens, with the Red Dragons looking to bolster their promotion push in League One.
Hardie’s Career and Current Situation
The 27-year-old former Rangers trainee has been a standout performer for Plymouth Argyle since joining in 2020. Over 230 appearances, Hardie has netted 64 goals, helping the Pilgrims rise from League Two to the Championship. Last season, he scored 12 goals in the second tier as Plymouth adjusted to life at a higher level.
This season, however, has been challenging for both Hardie and his club. With Plymouth rooted to the bottom of the Championship and manager Wayne Rooney recently dismissed, Hardie has struggled to find form, scoring just once. Despite these challenges, Wrexham reportedly view him as a key target to address their attacking struggles.
Wrexham’s Striker Woes
Phil Parkinson’s side currently sits third in League One, but their strikers have struggled for consistency. Jack Marriott, their top scorer with five goals, has been sidelined since October with a broken leg. Paul Mullin has scored only twice in the league after undergoing back surgery in the summer, while Ollie Palmer and veteran Steven Fletcher have managed three and four goals respectively.
Despite Fletcher’s timely contributions, his knee injury has required careful management, highlighting the need for reinforcements. Wrexham’s director Shaun Harvey has confirmed that funds will be available to strengthen the squad this month.
Breaking the Transfer Record
A move for Hardie would significantly exceed Wrexham’s current transfer record, set at £590,000 for Mo Faal from West Brom during the summer. The potential £2m fee reflects the club’s ambition under Reynolds and McElhenney, who have already overseen consecutive promotions.
Wrexham face competition for Hardie’s signature, with League One rivals Huddersfield Town also reportedly interested. However, their financial backing and clear intent to strengthen their squad make Wrexham strong contenders.
What’s Next?
The Red Dragons are also reportedly monitoring other forwards, including Bristol City’s Harry Cornick and Leeds United’s Patrick Bamford. With Hardie among their top targets, Wrexham’s next steps in the transfer market will be pivotal in determining their fate this season.
Writer’s View
Ryan Hardie’s potential move to Wrexham represents a bold statement of intent. While his recent form has been underwhelming, his proven track record and ability to thrive in lower leagues make him a valuable addition. For Wrexham, securing Hardie could not only bolster their promotion push but also reinforce their status as serious players in the footballing world under Hollywood ownership.
