Steven Fletcher could be set for a shock transfer to Qatar just months after leaving Wrexham at the end of last season.
The experienced Scotland international has been without a club since his departure from the Racecourse Ground, but reports suggest Al-Gharafa are ready to make him an offer.
From Wrexham Release to New Opportunity
Fletcher was one of eight senior players released by Wrexham in the summer, despite playing a part in their promotion push. The 38-year-old netted eight times in League One last term, contributing to a total of 16 goals across 77 appearances for the Red Dragons during his time in North Wales.
His exit prompted debate among supporters, with many feeling he still had a role to play under Phil Parkinson. The arrivals of Kieffer Moore and other high-profile summer signings have since softened the blow, with Wrexham beginning life in the Championship strongly.
Since leaving, Fletcher has been involved in punditry work while weighing up his next step. Now, according to reports, Qatari side Al-Gharafa are interested in bringing him to the Middle East, with finances unlikely to be an obstacle.
Fletcher’s Career Journey
The forward boasts a career spanning some of Europe’s biggest leagues. He began at Hibernian before moves to Burnley and Wolverhampton Wanderers, then enjoyed high-profile spells at Sunderland and Sheffield Wednesday. A loan stint at Marseille in 2016 added further variety, before later chapters at Stoke City, Dundee United and Wrexham.
His pedigree and physical presence in attack made him a valuable option for Wrexham during their climb through the EFL, even if age began to limit his minutes. For Al-Gharafa, the appeal is clear: an experienced figure capable of leading the line and offering a marquee presence in the Qatari Stars League.
Rob McElhenney’s Emotional Farewell
Wrexham co-owner Rob McElhenney admitted earlier this summer that Fletcher’s release had been a difficult moment. Speaking about the decision, he said:
“Even just bringing up his name is difficult because the brutal reality of football it just reminds me of how quickly you can go from spending all day with him here in Los Angeles promoting the show and playing golf. To putting him on a plane, sending him home and within 24 hours, Phil released him from the club and that was difficult.”
Writer’s View
A potential switch to Qatar would mark a dramatic new chapter in Fletcher’s career. For Wrexham, his release reflected the club’s ambition to move forward with younger and more prolific strikers, but the Scot’s professionalism and nous remain valuable assets.
Al-Gharafa’s interest shows his reputation still carries weight, and at 38, a final move abroad could prove both financially rewarding and a fitting way to close out a distinguished career.
