Just a few years ago, the idea of Wrexham AFC signing international stars for multi-million-pound fees would’ve sounded like fantasy.
But here we are, with the Welsh club smashing its transfer record as they continue their remarkable journey up the English football ladder.
From Non-League to Championship Dreamers
Wrexham have officially secured their return to the Championship, and they’re not slowing down.
With the ambition of pulling off an almost unthinkable fourth consecutive promotion, the club is setting its sights on a historic debut in the Premier League.
Their transformation has been nothing short of cinematic—literally.
Ever since actors Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney took over in 2021, Wrexham have skyrocketed from the National League to the Championship in just a few seasons.
The Red Dragons hadn’t reached the second tier in over 40 years, but now they’re serious contenders.
Breaking Records to Build the Future
Their latest move? A statement signing.
Wrexham have completed the transfer of Empoli left-back Liberato Cacace, paying an initial £2.16 million fee—an amount that could rise to £4 million depending on add-ons, according to talkSPORT.
That makes the 24-year-old New Zealand international the club’s most expensive signing ever, beating the £2 million they paid for Sam Smith from Reading earlier this year.
Cacace Feels the Wrexham Buzz
Cacace, who has 33 caps for the New Zealand national team, couldn’t hide his excitement.
“I’m absolutely delighted to sign for this historic club,” he said.
“I just can’t wait to get started. Looking from the outside, what they’re building here is something I want to be part of.
The close-knit, family feel of the club really enticed me.”
He added that after a conversation with manager Phil Parkinson, his mind was made up.
That personal touch, it seems, made all the difference.
Manager Parkinson Backs the New Arrival
Parkinson, who’s leading Wrexham through their pre-season tour in Australia and New Zealand, spoke highly of the defender—nicknamed “Libby.”
“We’re thrilled to welcome Libby to the club,” said the 57-year-old. “He’s a player we’ve had our eye on.
I really liked his character and personality in our chats. He fits the culture we’re building at Wrexham.”
A Sign of Evolving Ambitions
The signing also marks a new chapter in Wrexham’s recruitment strategy.
Up until now, most of their acquisitions have come from within the UK and Ireland.
Bringing in a Serie A-caliber player like Cacace—whose former club Empoli was relegated in May—signals a broader international vision.
Cacace is no fringe player either. He was nominated for the FIFA Best XI last year, and now he’ll be competing for Wrexham’s left-back spot alongside team captain James McClean, Seb Revan, and Jacob Mendy.
A Busy Summer Window for Wrexham
Cacace isn’t the only high-profile signing this summer.
Wrexham have also added Danny Ward, a former Leicester and Liverpool goalkeeper, and Ryan Hardie from Plymouth to the squad.
They were even linked with blockbuster names like Jamie Vardy and Tom Cairney earlier this summer, although those rumours seem to have cooled for now.
A Twist in the Tale for Star Striker Mullin
In an unexpected move, star striker Paul Mullin—who’s become a club legend with 110 goals in 170 appearances—has been loaned out to Wigan Athletic for the upcoming season.
That decision surprised fans, especially considering his pivotal role in Wrexham’s rise.
But with the club eyeing new tactics and bigger ambitions, changes are clearly part of the plan.