Hidden EFL rule change could boost Wrexham's chances of perfect first signing after promotion

A hidden EFL rule could allow Wrexham to make a dream first signing following promotion.

Earlier this month Wrexham's revival continued when they secured a second promotion in as many seasons.

The Welsh club clinched promotion to League One after 19 years outside the third tie.

A year ago, Wrexham won the National League and in doing so returned to the Football League after 15 years in the non-league system.

Wrexham's rejuvenation has felt like a fairytale for the club's fans, although their rise back up the leagues would not have happened without the investment of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

The Hollywood duo completed a takeover of the Red Dragons in 2021, and since then have invested heavily in the playing squad, club facilities and the famous SToK Racecourse stadium.

Over the last couple of years, Wrexham have been able to convince transfer targets to drop down from higher levels and join the club.

This season, Wrexham's weekly wage bill in League Two was greater than all-but five of the clubs currently playing in League One.

Wrexham celebrate promotion to League One. Image: Getty

Reynolds and McElhenney will look to strengthen Phil Parkinson's squad this summer ahead of the return to League One, and an EFL rule could help them.

EFL rules state that League One clubs can spend 60 per cent of their turnover on wages, compared to only 50 per cent in League Two.

This means that Wrexham could potentially improve the deals of their current stars and even present themselves as an attractive destination for Championship players who wouldn't want to drop down to standard League One wages.

The rule could help Wrexham land goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo on a permanent deal.

The youngster has impressed this season while on loan from Arsenal, but he is set to be in high demand when he becomes a free agent this summer.

Premier League and Championship sides are likely to be interested, but Wrexham could now be able to offer him attractive in a bid to convince him to stay at the Racecourse.

Topics: Wrexham, League One, Ryan Reynolds, Rob McElhenney, Transfer News, Football

Alex Brotherton

Alex Brotherton is a Sports Trends Writer at SPORTbible. He has previously worked with publications including the Manchester Evening News, GOAL and BBC Sport. He is a football fanatic, but also dabbles in tennis and American football. He enjoys running, cooking and watching non-league football.

@alex_brotherton