Wrexham AFC Plot Ambitious Move to Re-Sign Wales International Danny Ward
Wrexham, Wales – June 1, 2025 — In what would mark another significant statement of intent from one of the Football League’s most talked-about clubs, Wrexham AFC are now understood to be plotting an audacious move to re-sign Wales international goalkeeper Danny Ward. The 31-year-old Leicester City stopper, who began his senior career with the Red Dragons, is reportedly on the club’s radar ahead of the summer transfer window as they seek to bolster their squad for the 2025/26 season.
Sources close to the club have confirmed that Wrexham’s hierarchy, including co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, are seriously considering a move for Ward as they look to strengthen key areas of the squad following their promotion to League One earlier this year. The move, if completed, would not only add a proven international pedigree to their ranks but also represent a full-circle return for a player whose footballing journey began in North Wales.
A Homegrown Talent with Premier League Experience
Danny Ward is no stranger to Wrexham. Born in Wrexham, the goalkeeper came through the club’s youth academy and made his senior debut in 2011. Though he made just a handful of appearances for the club before being snapped up by Liverpool in 2012, his ties to the Racecourse Ground have remained strong.
Since leaving Wrexham, Ward’s career has taken him through some of the biggest stages in English and international football. While at Liverpool, he enjoyed loan spells with Morecambe, Aberdeen, and notably Huddersfield Town, where his heroics in the 2016–17 Championship play-off final helped secure their historic promotion to the Premier League.
In 2018, Ward completed a £12.5 million move to Leicester City. Though he played second fiddle to Kasper Schmeichel for much of his early time with the Foxes, Ward eventually broke into the first team and served as Leicester’s No. 1 in multiple seasons, making appearances in the Premier League, FA Cup, and European competitions.
On the international stage, Ward has earned over 35 caps for Wales, serving both as a starter and a backup to Wayne Hennessey. He featured prominently in Wales’ successful Euro 2016 campaign, where the team reached the semi-finals, and also played in Euro 2020 and the 2022 FIFA World Cup.
Wrexham’s Project Continues to Gather Pace
The potential signing of Danny Ward fits seamlessly into the strategy that has propelled Wrexham into the national and international spotlight over the past few seasons. Since being taken over by Hollywood stars Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney in 2021, the club has undergone a dramatic transformation both on and off the pitch.
After earning promotion to the Football League in 2023, Wrexham followed up with another successful campaign in League Two, culminating in a second successive promotion and a place in League One for the 2025/26 season. Their progress has been backed by significant investment, smart recruitment, and a growing global fanbase, thanks in part to the FX docuseries “Welcome to Wrexham.”
Ward’s return would serve as a symbolic and strategic coup—bringing home a player who embodies the club’s heritage while also reinforcing a position that is vital for success at higher levels of the football pyramid.
Competition and Considerations
While Wrexham’s interest in Ward is concrete, the move will not be without its complications. The goalkeeper remains under contract at Leicester City, who are themselves in a state of flux following their recent relegation to the Championship. Though Ward’s future at the King Power Stadium is uncertain, Leicester may yet consider him a valuable asset either on the field or in the transfer market.
Another hurdle could be Ward’s wage demands. Having spent the bulk of the past decade with Premier League clubs, his salary expectations are likely to be considerably higher than the typical League One player. However, Wrexham have shown a willingness to break the mould when necessary, as seen with the signing of former Premier League players such as Ben Foster and Steven Fletcher in recent seasons.
Ward may also face offers from clubs in the Championship or abroad, which could offer him a higher level of competition than League One. Yet the emotional pull of returning to his boyhood club—and the opportunity to be part of a unique and ambitious footballing project—could sway his decision.
Reaction from Fans and Analysts
News of Wrexham’s interest in Danny Ward has already begun to stir excitement among fans and pundits alike. On social media, many supporters have voiced their enthusiasm for the possible reunion.
“This would be an unbelievable signing. He’s one of our own and still a top-class keeper,” wrote one fan on X (formerly Twitter). “Bring him home!”
Football analysts have also weighed in, with former Wales and Wrexham midfielder Mickey Thomas telling BBC Radio Wales: “Danny’s experience at the top levels of the game would be invaluable for Wrexham. It would be a smart and emotional move, and a real sign that the club means business.”
Others, however, have noted the need for realism. “It’s a great story, but there are hurdles to overcome. It depends on Ward’s personal ambitions at this stage of his career,” said football journalist Tom Morgan. “If he wants to play every week and be part of a rising project with deep roots, Wrexham is a great option.”
What It Means for the Current Squad
If Ward were to sign, it would likely see changes to Wrexham’s current goalkeeping pecking order. Veteran goalkeeper Arthur Okonkwo, who impressed on loan from Arsenal, has since returned to his parent club, while backup Rob Lainton is nearing the end of his contract.
Ward would presumably step in as the clear first-choice keeper, bringing not only ability but also leadership and experience that could prove crucial as Wrexham adjust to the demands of League One football.
The Bigger Picture
The pursuit of Danny Ward is about more than just filling a position—it’s emblematic of Wrexham’s broader ambitions. The club is not just trying to survive in the Football League; it’s trying to thrive and push toward the Championship within the next few years.
With a solid foundation in place, significant financial backing, and a compelling narrative that continues to capture the imagination of fans around the world, Wrexham are in a unique position. Bringing back a homegrown international star would be yet another powerful chapter in their unfolding story.
Whether the deal ultimately materializes remains to be seen, but one thing is certain: Wrexham AFC are aiming high—and they’re not done yet.
