Sheffield Wednesday are reportedly in advanced discussions with former Birmingham City star Nathan Redmond about a potential return to Championship football, as the struggling Yorkshire club looks to bolster their squad during a challenging period.
Wednesday's Recruitment Drive Intensifies
The Owls, who currently sit rock bottom of the Championship with -4 points following a 10-point deduction for entering administration, have received special permission from the English Football League to sign two free agents. This emergency measure comes as the club deals with multiple injury setbacks and the impending departure of Yan Valery and Sean Fusire to the African Cup of Nations.
Sheffield Wednesday are already closing in on one signing, with experienced former Leeds United centre-back Liam Cooper expected to take one of the allocated slots. This leaves one remaining position available, and according to The Sheffield Star, Nathan Redmond has emerged as a strong candidate to fill it.
Redmond's Career Crossroads
The 31-year-old winger has been without a club for nearly five months after being released by automatic promotion winners Burnley in June. His time at Turf Moor proved challenging, managing just 18 total appearances and only seven minutes of Championship football under Scott Parker last season.
Redmond's difficulties were compounded by persistent calf and hamstring concerns, making it what he would describe as his most challenging period as a professional. Despite this recent struggle, the former England international brings substantial experience to the table, with 276 Premier League appearances and 107 games at Championship level.
Proven Track Record and Versatility
Redmond rose to prominence at Birmingham City, making his first team debut in 2010 after eight years in the academy system. He was part of the squad that won the League Cup, making his initial appearance in a second round tie against Rochdale.
Following Birmingham's relegation, he became a regular under Chris Hughton as the side finished fifth in the Championship. His European experience includes eight appearances in the Europa League, notably scoring against Nacional to help secure the team's place in the group stage.
While primarily operating as a winger throughout his career, Redmond has also demonstrated versatility by playing up front and in midfield on occasion. This flexibility could prove valuable to a Sheffield Wednesday side needing creative solutions during their difficult campaign.
Other names being considered by Wednesday's recruitment team include former Manchester United defender Timothy Fosu-Mensah and ex-Middlesbrough attacker Duncan Watmore, though Redmond appears to be the frontrunner for the final available slot.
