Excitement surrounds Wrexham as owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney receive news about their promising talent, Max Cleworth. The young Wrexham defender is poised for a record-breaking Premier League move that could shatter the club’s current transfer record. Cleworth, emerging from Wrexham’s youth ranks, has cemented his reputation under coach Phil Parkinson, tallying 139 appearances. His performance has been pivotal in leading the team from the National League to its current strong position in League One.
The 22-year-old’s contribution is underscored by his eight goals this season, making him an invaluable asset to Wrexham’s pursuit of promotion. Former team captain Ben Tozer highlighted Cleworth’s Premier League potential during a conversation on Ben Foster’s podcast, expressing confidence in his ability to either excel with Wrexham throughout promotions or capture the attention of top-tier teams. “Max has got Premier League written all over him,” said Tozer, alluding to Cleworth’s leadership capabilities and the options available to him.
Currently, Wrexham’s transfer record stands at the £1 million received from Birmingham City for Bryan Hughes in 1997. Hughes himself, who managed Wrexham briefly, recognizes Cleworth’s bright prospects. Reminiscing about offering Cleworth his debut against Ayr at just 16, Hughes shared with the Leader newspaper his early conviction of Cleworth’s talent. “Max is a talented boy. I gave him his debut, and it’s brilliant to see where he is now,” Hughes stated, emphasizing the foresight in securing promising players like Cleworth and Jake Bickerstaff for Wrexham’s future.
Despite Wrexham’s strong financial position under Reynolds and McElhenney’s ownership, Cleworth’s stature continues to grow, reinforcing his chances of setting a new transfer benchmark. Hughes added, “Max could definitely be the one to break my record, which would be nice because I gave him his debut. He’s got the potential to do it, and his experience in League One only enhances his prospects.”
Already impressing while consistently performing well and scoring from defense, Cleworth’s progression is seen as a testament to his diligence and the club’s faith in developing youth talent. As Cleworth eyes up the Championship, his focus remains on strengthening his impact at Wrexham, with hopes of anchoring their future success. Hughes concluded, “He is currently playing and consistently playing well, and scoring goals from defence, in League One. It is testament to him that he has worked hard and testament to the coaching staff that they have given him the opportunity.”
The potential move not only marks a significant turning point for Cleworth but also emphasizes Wrexham’s impressive journey under the guidance of owners like Ryan Reynolds. The ambition and strategy focused on nurturing talent have effectively placed the club on a promising path toward higher leagues. Whether the move materializes or Cleworth continues to shine and lead Wrexham’s charge, the young defender’s future looks undeniably bright and filled with opportunities.
