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Leeds loan agreed, striker target signs - Wrexham's dream January transfer window

  /  autty

Wrexham are in a strong position as they enter the January transfer window, still in the running for promotion from League One.

The club's Hollywood owners, Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, have given manager Phil Parkinson the go-ahead to splash the cash this month. The race for the two automatic promotion spots in the third tier appears to be between four teams.

Birmingham City, the big spenders, currently lead the table at the halfway point, with Wycombe Wanderers trailing by two points. Wrexham are in third place, level on points with Wycombe but with a lower goal difference.

Huddersfield Town have also thrown their hat into the ring after a string of impressive results. After a summer where Wrexham invested heavily in players like midfielder Ollie Rathbone and striker Mo Faal, there aren't many areas that need improvement in January.

However, given the ambitious club's chance of an incredible third consecutive promotion, it wouldn't be surprising if they broke their transfer record again. Despite their strong start, Wrexham have struggled to score goals, with star striker Paul Mullin unusually off form following back surgery in the summer.

There are also other squad issues that need to be addressed, with some players nearing the end of their contracts. With all this in mind, here are three outcomes that would make for the perfect transfer window for the club.

Michael Smith signs

One of the key targets Parkinson had his eye on during last summer's transfer window was Sheffield Wednesday's forward, Michael Smith. With the Championship team deciding to keep their star player at Hillsborough, it seems their decision has been fruitful so far this season.

The 33-year-old has managed to net five goals for the Owls, often coming off the bench. However, with his contract set to end this summer, revisiting the move this month could be a win-win situation for all involved.

Smith would fit perfectly into Parkinson's strategy and could be the ideal partner to reignite Mullin's scoring streak. The one who might find himself in a tricky spot is Ollie Palmer.

The ex-AFC Wimbledon striker has put in a lot of effort for Wrexham up front, but his goal tally has dwindled. It wouldn't come as a shock if the club attempts to secure a forward with Championship experience to elevate them to the next level.

Sam Dalby's predicament resolved

Despite Wrexham's lack of goals, they do have a striker who's on fire, albeit on loan. Sam Dalby has had a fantastic run with Dundee United in the first half of the season and currently leads the Scottish Premiership's top scorer chart with ten goals.

Parkinson now faces a tough decision whether to recall the striker during the January window, with his contract set to expire in the summer. The 25-year-old has expressed his happiness to stay with United, who are reportedly eager to sign him permanently.

The gaffer has a few cards up his sleeve, including the possibility of bringing Dalby back into the fold. For now, remaining at Tannadice on loan for the rest of the season might be the best move for both the player and United.

For Wrexham, it could be beneficial to recall Dalby in the short-term to coax United into making a permanent offer for the forward in January. This would also allow the Red Dragons to secure a transfer fee.

Bonus striker signing to address scoring worries

Mullin has more than proven his worth at Wrexham. The Scouse striker is a club legend due to his past goal-scoring feats and is adored by co-owners Reynolds and McElhenney.

However, with an eye on the future, a second striker signing would be the icing on the cake during this transfer window. Increased competition might also motivate Mullin to find his scoring form again.

It's uncertain if there are forwards willing to potentially play second fiddle to him. One option could be to loan a young striker from a higher division team.

Joe Gelhardt of Leeds United is one player who has been linked with Wrexham for the January window. The 22-year-old forward is also reportedly being pursued by Hull City.

While a complete overhaul isn't necessary, strengthening their frontline this month can only boost the north Wales side's chances of automatic promotion.

Related: Leeds United