Wrexham line up Fulham captain Tom Cairney for a free transfer move as they prepare for Championship football in Wales

Wrexham line up Fulham captain Tom Cairney for a free transfer move as they prepare for Championship football in Wales

After wrapping up their wild promotion celebrations in Las Vegas, Wrexham are quickly shifting gears back into football mode.

With the Championship now on the horizon, the club is making moves behind the scenes—and one of their top targets is Fulham captain Tom Cairney.

Building for the Championship with Premier League Experience

Wrexham’s storybook climb through the leagues has been nothing short of spectacular.

Now, with their spot in the Championship secured for the first time since 1982, they’re laying the groundwork for another competitive season—this time in the second tier.

To do that, the club is targeting experienced players who can help them navigate the step up. Cairney fits the bill perfectly.

Not only has he captained Fulham, but he’s also helped them win promotion to the Premier League three times. That kind of experience is hard to come by.

Wrexham Make Their Move

According to The Telegraph, Wrexham have already made an approach for Cairney, though talks are still in the early stages.

The midfielder, now 34, is expected to leave Fulham once his contract expires this summer—making him a potential free agent.

Cairney has spent ten years at Craven Cottage and has worn the captain’s armband since 2017.

Despite being in the twilight of his career, he remains a solid presence in midfield, having made 23 Premier League appearances this season alone.

A Smart and Strategic Fit

If Wrexham do manage to sign him, it’ll be another clever move in their recent pattern of snapping up seasoned pros.

Cairney, with over 300 Championship games to his name and two Scotland caps, offers both leadership and know-how—two things that could be priceless in a tough Championship campaign.

And while he’d likely command a significant salary, the club is prepared to invest where it counts.

The opportunity to add someone of his caliber—without a transfer fee—might be too good to pass up.

Following a Proven Formula

Manager Phil Parkinson has been consistent in his approach—bringing in players with top-level experience to blend with the existing squad.

In recent seasons, Wrexham have welcomed names like Jay Rodriguez, James McClean, and Steven Fletcher.

There’s even been speculation linking former Premier League stars Jonny Evans and Jamie Vardy with the club.

Parkinson, however, remains grounded and insists that while quality matters, team culture comes first.

No Room for Egos at Wrexham

In Parkinson’s words, “no superstars, no egos.” He’s keen to keep the dressing room humble and focused, regardless of the name on the back of the shirt.

The jump in salary requirements between League One and the Championship, he admits, is “mind-blowing,” but the club is careful to maintain balance.

“We always make sure the culture is right,” he said.

“You need extra quality when you go up a level, but it’s just as important to bring in the right kind of people.”

Party Over, Focus On

Last month, Wrexham sealed their third promotion in a row—and the party was just as epic as their season.

The entire squad was treated to a blowout trip to Las Vegas, with celebrations that reportedly racked up a £500,000 bill, generously footed by Hollywood co-owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney.

With pool parties, luxury hotel stays at the Bellagio, and nights out at Hakkasan, it was a well-earned break for the team after a history-making season.

A New Chapter Begins

As the party winds down, all eyes are now on what comes next.

Wrexham are determined not just to survive in the Championship—but to make a real impact.

And adding someone like Tom Cairney could be the kind of statement signing that shows they mean business.