Exclusive:Latest on Sheffield Wednesday talks with EFL on free agent signings with FIFA involved
Discussions continue on whether or not Sheffield Wednesday will be allowed to strengthen their squad with free agent signings - though it won’t just be the EFL who have a deciding say in the matter, The Star understands.
The Owls have been locked in stringent recruitment restrictions for several months owing to their spiralling financial situation under outgoing owner Dejphon Chansiri.
Cashflow forecasts have been much-improved by the reversal of a fan spending boycott, with administrators suggesting a £1m profit is possible if current projections are to be continued through to the end of January. With that the case, the point is being made that perhaps those restrictions could be loosened to allow for ‘one or two’ free agent additions to ease what has been already been a monumental squad effort heading into the busy midwinter fixture schedule.
Discussions with the EFL took place on Monday and while the Owls were hopeful of an indication of where things were heading, it is likely to be at least Thursday before they receive firm word on whether restrictions will be eased.
It’s believed that global football body FIFA are to be heavily involved in any decision, with The Star of the understanding that monies owed as part of transfer dealings with foreign clubs could stand in the way of a green light to make fresh signings. These deals would come outside the jurisdiction of the EFL and Wednesday will require permission of some sort from both bodies in order to proceed.
Owls boss Henrik Pedersen has spoken about the desire to add new players to his squad for some time and the club remain hopeful something can be agreed. Former Leeds United captain Liam Cooper is a long-held target and was confirmed to be a signing possibility in the Dane’s post-match press conference over the weekend. The Star understands former Manchester United defender Timothy Fosu-Mensah is also a listed possibility.
Former Cardiff City midfielder Andy Rinomhota is also suggested to be a name on Wednesday’s longlist of free agent possibilities. The Zimbabwe international can also play as a right-back but could be involved in next month’s AFCON tournament. Media in Berkshire have reported that he has been training with his old club Reading over the last couple of weeks.
It’s understood that even if Wednesday are given the go-ahead to proceed with new signings, some restrictions on salary and nature of deal are likely to remain. Pedersen told The Star over the weekend that the club has drawn up a lengthy list of possible targets that will align with any parameters they are able to work within.