The prospect of Sheffield Wednesday rushing out to sign any squad-bolstering free agents doesn’t appear to be a live one as things stand - but the options are out there should they be required.
The Owls sealed-off their manic summer with the loan addition of Wrexham attacker Davis Keillor-Dunn, a proven goal-getter at League One level that made his debut for the club in the 2-1 win at Peterborough United over the weekend. The publication of their EFL squad list showed five places open - meaning in theory free agents could be signed to bolster their numbers.
Henrik Pedersen and sporting director Simon Wilson played down the idea of any further additions in the immediate future, though Wilson did outline the ongoing efforts of the recruitment team in keeping tabs on any options that could align for the Owls’ needs going forward.
He said: “Should there be a situation where we have to, we have to know who those players are, where they are and be across their situation. So, yeah, Kevin (Beadell) and the recruitment team are constantly around that and understanding what options we might have should we need them.”
With that in mind, we asked Owls fan and sometime EFL club analyst TWFootball to run the rule over the remaining options in the window. Including a former England international, Man City and Arsenal academy graduates and one or two names you may recognise, here’s what he came up with.
1. Jonathan Panzo
Released by Birmingham this summer, Panzo was previously flagged as a target in 2024 and is available once again. Comfortable at left-back and centre-back, he would provide much-needed cover after Max Lowe’s injury. At 25 he offers a strong technical and physical profile and could be more than a short-term option. Recently linked with Lazio. | Getty Images
2. Conor Coady
Released by Wrexham only last week, Coady is one of the few names on this list who should be immediately match-fit. Rarely used in North Wales, he still made 18 appearances on loan at Charlton last season. Versatile across centre-back and central midfield, he would add depth and experience. Has jumped into coaching with England u21s but has not retired. | Getty Images
3. Dexter Lembikisa
The former Wolves defender is available after being released this summer. Successful loans at Hearts and Rotherham were followed by an injury-hit spell at Lincoln City. Primarily a right-back, he can also play left-back or centre-back. At 22, his best days should still be ahead of him.
4. Samuel Rak-Sakyi
The former Chelsea midfielder was believed to be set to join the Owls on loan last season before EFL sanctions blocked the deal. Released by Chelsea this summer, he remains surprisingly available given his technical and physical profile. Four European appearances for Chelsea as a 19-year-old make this a low-risk, high-reward option. | Mike Hewitt/Getty Images