Five forwards Wrexham should goal earlier than deadline day or watch promotion dream collapse

On Aug 20, 2026

Wrexham must sign a proven goalscorer before the transfer window closes or risk missing out on promotion after wasteful finishing cost them again at Cardiff

14:48, 20 Aug 2026Updated 14:48, 20 Aug 2026

Phil Parkinson’s search for a new hitman became more urgent after seeing Wrexham drop points at Cardiff(Image: NurPhoto via Getty Images)

Wrexham’s late collapse in Monday night’s 1-1 draw away at Cardiff City was a painful case of history repeating itself. Last term, Phil Parkinson’s men surrendered a staggering 24 points from winning positions – a joint record for the fifth-worst tally in the Championship.

Despite controlling huge swathes of their opening league match of the season and registering 18 shots to Cardiff’s 11, the Red Dragons failed to kill off the game.

Kieffer Moore’s early opener gave them the perfect start, but missed chances, most notably from substitute Sam Smith, left the door open for Rubin Colwill to snatch a dramatic last-gasp equaliser from a free kick.

Wrexham struggled to take their chances against Cardiff, despite Kieffer Moore giving them an early lead(Image: Offside via Getty Images)

Speaking after the game, a disappointed Parkinson said: “We should have taken the game out of sight…I thought our finishing really lacked power. Do we need to improve in terms of being clinical? Yes.”

With the summer transfer window slamming shut on September 1, Wrexham must now splash the cash on a proven goalscorer if they want to remain genuine promotion contenders.

Here, the Daily Star takes a look at five forwards linked with a move to the Racecourse Ground and considers the pros and cons of signing them, as well as how likely they are to make the switch.

1. Lukas Nmecha

Signing Lukas Nmecha would represent a massive statement of intent from Wrexham

Pros: Premier League pedigree, explosive athleticism and exceptional versatility across the front line. He made 37 appearances in the top flight for Leeds United last season and has international caps to his name for Germany.
Cons: Huge wage demands and a high acquisition cost. Dropping down to the Championship might not be in keeping with his own personal ambitions.
Current Situation: Under contract at Leeds United until 2028 after joining last summer.
Likelihood: Low. A massive statement of intent if successful, but financially and logistically, it seems a big stretch.

2. Cameron Archer

Cameron Archer could be a realistic option for Wrexham(Image: Southampton FC via Getty Images)

Pros: Proven track record as a ruthless second-tier goalscorer with pace and clinical finishing.
Cons: Relatively high market valuation following major transfers to Sheffield United and Southampton.
Current Situation: Under contract at Southampton following his £15m move in 2024, but reportedly available for a cut-price £7m fee this summer.
Likelihood: Medium-High. A straight purchase previously looked out of reach, but with Southampton open to a £7m sale, Wrexham’s ambitious ownership could well be tempted to trigger a permanent deal.

3. Peter Christiansen

Peter Christiansen’s strong aerial presence would suit Phil Parkinson’s system(Image: Jurij Kodrun/Getty Images)

Pros: Quick and dynamic Danish striker capable of playing centrally or off the flank. Strong aerial presence that would suit Parkinson’s system and entering his physical prime at 26.
Cons: Unproven in English football, which carries a significant risk late in the transfer window.
Current Situation: Currently leading the line for Norwegian side Viking FK with a contract running until 2027.
Likelihood: Medium-High. A realistic target within Wrexham’s financial scope if they decide to shop overseas.

4. Bim Pepple

Bim Pepple has a strong physical profile and high work rate(Image: Getty Images)

Pros: Young, with a strong physical profile and high work rate. May accept a squad role and lower wage than other targets.
Cons: Lacks the immediate Championship-proven goalscoring record Wrexham need right now.
Current Situation: Contracted to Plymouth Argyle until 2028
Likelihood: High. Highly obtainable, though more of a developmental prospect than an instant solution to their woes.

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5. Daniel Jebbison

Daniel Jebbison seems determined to stay and fight for his place at Bournemouth(Image: AFC Bournemouth via Getty Images)

Pros: Outstanding physical attributes, relentless pressing and strong link-up play that fits Parkinson’s direct system.
Cons: Wants to stay at his parent club and fight for his place and inconsistent output in front of goal over recent campaigns.
Current Situation: Bournemouth have knocked back permanent bids for Jebbison from several Championship sides and European clubs. The departure of Enes Unal, combined with new manager Marco Rose being impressed by Jebbison’s pre-season form, means the Cherries want him as a third striker for their historic Europa League campaign. Jebbison himself has reiterated his desire to remain at Dean Court.
Likelihood: Low. A move now looks dead in the water, as both player and club are aligned on him staying on the south coast.