In a significant transfer market setback, Wrexham's hopes of securing Leeds United striker Joe Gelhardt have been dashed as the 22-year-old forward is finalizing a move to Hull City instead. The Championship club has outmaneuvered the Hollywood-owned Welsh side, with Gelhardt currently undergoing medical examinations ahead of a proposed loan deal.
The disappointment comes as Wrexham, under the ownership of Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, actively seeks to strengthen their attacking options. Currently sitting third in League One, just two points behind leaders Birmingham City, the club's promotion aspirations have been somewhat hampered by their struggle to find a consistent goalscorer.
The team's current top scorer, Elliott Lee, has only managed six goals this season, while last season's prolific duo Paul Mullin and Ollie Palmer have experienced a significant drop in form. The pair, who combined for an impressive 34 goals in League Two last season - with Mullin contributing 26 - have only managed to find the net five times between them this term, with Mullin scoring twice and Palmer three times.
Manager Phil Parkinson's search for additional firepower continues as the January transfer window remains open. The club's immediate focus turns to their upcoming fixture against Shrewsbury Town on Thursday, but the hunt for attacking reinforcements is expected to intensify following this latest transfer setback.
Reports suggest that Wrexham's ownership remains committed to investing in the squad this month as they pursue their ambitious goal of Championship promotion, making further transfer activity likely before the window closes.
