Henrik Pedersen confirms identity of Sheffield Wednesday free agent target - fresh outcome date on EFL talks
Sheffield Wednesday expect to receive a verdict on Monday with regard to whether or not they’ll be allowed to make free agent signings between now and the January transfer window, with Henrik Pedersen confirming one target in mind.
The Owls have been largely unable to strengthen their squad since being placed under EFL recruitment restrictions for a range of regulation breaches linked to the club’s dire financial state under failed former chairman Dejphon Chansiri. Administration has seen a reversal of a fan spending boycott and a transformative improvement in cashflow, which the club argue should allow for free agents to be signed if they can prove their forecasts to the EFL’s independent Club Financial Reporting Unit.
It had been hoped that Wednesday would be given a firm indication of the ruling on whether or not to soften their restrictions and allow the club to bring in ‘one or two’ free agent additions last week. But talks will continued into Monday, with Owls boss Pedersen hopeful an agreement can be struck ahead of the gruelling nature of a midwinter fixture schedule.
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“I am still hopeful, but we don't know anything yet,” Pedersen told The Star when asked on an update on the situation. “On Monday there will be a meeting and from here we will know what we can do. I am looking forward to Monday afternoon to see what has happened.”
The Star reported on interest in former Leeds United captain Liam Cooper as far back as August. It was understood that the experienced centre-half was close to agreeing a deal with the club before the sanctions placed on Wednesday became clear. The Danish coach confirmed he remains a primary target having earlier suggested central midfield is also an area of high priority.
Different profiles and lists have been drawn up by the club’s recruitment team so that they can act fast in the event they are given the green light on business of some sort. It is likely Wednesday will have to act under the terms of a salary cap on deals even if they are given the OK.
“He is one of them,” he confirmed on Scotland international Cooper. “We have more on the list, but if you don't know what you can pay in salary, what you can budget for, it is difficult. But we have different lists with different categories and we will see what happens. We hope for the best.”