HERE WE GO: Wrexham to complete club-record transfer for lethal forward from European heavyweight

Wrexham reportedly made a club record bid before Friday’s transfer deadline.

Revealed: Who is Manchester United's new striker Will Keane? | Football | Sport | Express.co.uk

Following their promotion to League One, the Red Dragons, supported by Hollywood owners Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds, have been busy expanding their roster.

So far, Ollie Rathbone, Arthur Okonkwo, George Dobson, and Callum Burton have relocated to Wrexham.

Wrexham’s ambition to strengthen their squad ahead of the transfer deadline was highlighted by a reported club-record bid of £750,000 for striker Will Keane. However, this bid was rejected by Championship side Preston North End.

Keane, a 31-year-old forward with a solid track record, has been attracting significant interest, not just from Wrexham but also from other Championship clubs like West Bromwich Albion and Cardiff City. Both clubs have reportedly had their own bids for Keane turned down as well, indicating that Preston North End is keen to retain the striker, who has already proven his value this season by scoring the winning goal in a recent 1-0 victory over Luton Town.

Despite the rejection, Wrexham’s bid underscores their serious intent to bolster their attack as they adapt to life in League One. With competition from higher-tier clubs, securing a player of Keane’s caliber would be a significant coup for Wrexham, reflecting the club’s continued ambition under the ownership of Rob McElhenney and Ryan Reynolds. The transfer window is still open, so it remains to be seen if Wrexham will return with an improved offer or shift their focus to other targets.

With his contract set to expire at the end of the current season, Preston may decide to cash in on Keane if a reasonable offer is made.

The Republic of Ireland striker progressed through Manchester United’s levels before going on loan to Wigan Athletic, Queens Park Rangers, Sheffield Wednesday, and Preston.

Keane left Old Trafford permanently in 2016 to join Hull City, where he scored once in 22 league games.

After an initial loan spell, the Irishman joined Ipswich Town in 2019, returned to Wigan in 2020, and signed with Preston again in 2023.

Keane has made 290 career appearances in all competitions and scored 79 goals.

At the international level, the striker has With his contract set to expire at the end of the current season, Preston may decide to cash in on Keane if a reasonable offer is made.