Wrexham AFC could still look to add firepower before the transfer window closes on Tuesday. Leeds United’s Lukas Nmecha has already been linked, while Ellis Simms and Emil Riis are two other Championship strikers who could fit the bill.
Phil Parkinson has been clear that any late move must add genuine quality, not just numbers. With Kieffer Moore, Sam Smith and Bailey Cadamarteri already competing for the central role, the focus is firmly on finding someone who can make a real difference.
The market hasn’t made things easy. Parkinson told BBC Sport that Wrexham are very specific about the players and positions they want to strengthen, making the quality of any late addition all the more important.
Lukas Nmecha already on Wrexham’s radar
Nmecha is the obvious starting point, with Wrexham’s interest already reported by BBC Sport. The 27-year-old joined Leeds in 2025 and scored six times in 31 Premier League appearances last season.
There is a complication, though. The72 has reported that Leeds are reluctant to let Nmecha leave until they have a replacement lined up. He’s under contract until 2027, so there’s no pressure on Leeds to rush a decision.
From Wrexham’s perspective, the appeal is obvious. Nmecha brings top-flight experience, offers a different profile to the current options and would be a statement signing if Leeds’ stance softens before the deadline.
Ellis Simms would bring proven Championship goals
There’s no indication that Wrexham have made a move for Simms, but the Coventry City striker is an intriguing alternative. The 25-year-old scored 13 goals in 43 Championship appearances last season and is contracted until 2027.
His future has been the subject of speculation, with BBC Sport noting interest from Wolves. Coventry may not be looking to sell, but there’s clearly a market forming around a player with proven scoring ability at this level.
Simms would be a strong alternative if Wrexham can’t land Nmecha. At 25, he also offers the potential to be a longer-term part of the squad, not just a short-term fix.
Emil Riis could be the attainable alternative
Riis presents a different kind of option. The Denmark-born striker scored nine goals in 44 Championship appearances for Bristol City last season, but his role has diminished following changes to the squad over the summer.
Bristol Live has reported growing transfer interest in the 28-year-old, who is under contract until 2028. Bristol City could be open to letting him leave before the window closes.
That could make Riis the most accessible of the three. He knows the league, brings a physical presence and has the experience to step in and compete straight away.
Wrexham don’t need to add a striker just for the sake of it. Nmecha remains the headline target, but Simms and Riis both offer credible alternatives if Parkinson decides one more attacking option could tip the balance this season.
About The Author
