Darling signs: The dream Sheffield Wednesday summer 2025 transfer window | OneFootball

Strengthening the defence and finding goals must be Wednesday’s top priority

Sheffield Wednesday are in desperate need of an overhaul this summer, particularly across the defence.

An ageing backline has struggled throughout the season, with frequently makeshift defences and an overreliance on Di'Shon Bernard - until he succumbed to a season-ending knee injury himself.

It has become evident that reinforcements are essential to stabilise the squad and ensure greater resilience in the Championship as the Owls look to establish themselves as a top-half team.

The need for attacking reinforcements is just as pressing, with Wednesday repeatedly struggling to convert chances in key moments.

Several big games have been lost against the grain of play due to a lack of a clinical finisher, and the marquee signing of Ike Ugbo has failed to provide the goals needed to ease those concerns.

Oliver Casey

The Blackpool centre-back has been one of the standout defenders in League One, excelling in aerial duels, tackles, and overall defensive presence.

His ability to dominate physically and win key battles makes him an ideal candidate to reinforce Wednesday’s backline.

The 24-year-old Leeds academy product's performances in the division below have demonstrated a readiness for a step-up, and he would bring much-needed solidity to the defence.

Harry Darling

Potentially available on a free transfer from Swansea City, Darling offers a composed presence in possession while maintaining strong defensive metrics.

His ability to build from the back and pick out passes would complement Casey’s more combative style, creating a well-rounded central defensive partnership. Adding Darling would bring technical quality and much-needed depth to the squad, although one issue might well be Sheffield United's interest.

Ethan Pye

A left-sided defender with excellent passing and possession metrics, Pye has impressed with his consistency at Stockport County.

His adaptability and experience from non-league through to the EFL make him an appealing option.

His durability and ability to distribute from the back would fit well within the progressive defensive setup that Danny Rohl has implemented at Hillsborough.

Jacob Brown

A return for the former academy player would offer a realistic and exciting addition to the attack.

If Luton Town suffer relegation, the forward could become available and provide a more grounded alternative to the social media calls for a romanticised return of Jamie Vardy.

Brown’s pace, versatility, and pressing ability would be valuable assets for the Owls.

Moussa Sylla

The French forward, who emerged out of the AS Monaco youth set up and has enjoyed productive spells in Ligue 2 and the Eredivisie, has been prolific for Schalke 04 in Germany’s second division, making him an ambitious but attainable target.

With an impressive goal return, he could provide the firepower Wednesday desperately need.

Given the club’s previous recruitment from this market, Sylla represents an exciting attacking option that may well be on the Owls' radar.

Michael Ihiekwe

The experienced centre-back has stepped up this season when injuries mounted, offering leadership and composure.

However, with Wednesday looking to refresh their defence and Ihiekwe’s fall down the pre-injury crisis pecking order, Ihiekwe has the potential to be among those moving on. A departure for the steady defender is likely in order to facilitate the defensive shake-up the Owls desperately need.

Liam Palmer

A one-club man and a key figure in the squad for over a decade, Palmer’s longevity underlines his importance.

However, the popular Owl is another to have become out of favour with Danny Rohl and, with his contract nearing its end, speculation about his future continues to grow.

If Wednesday opt for a defensive rebuild, Palmer's long tenure at the club may come to an emotional close.

Michael Smith

A proven goalscorer across League One and the Championship, Smith’s sharp ability and physical presence have remained valuable to the Owls in the 24/25 season, as the former Rotherham man made his way back in the side after Ike Ugbo failed to replicate his form of last season.

However, an expiring contract and interest from ambitious League One sides could see him depart for a new challenge.

Pol Valentin

Since arriving in 2023, Valentin has struggled to establish himself at Wednesday or look particularly comfortable within the Rohl set-up when called upon.

With interest from Turkish clubs in previous transfer windows, a move abroad could be the best route for the Spanish full-back to regain form and regular playing time.

Jamal Lowe

Jamal Lowe's star burned brightly but briefly - the former Swansea City and Bournemouth man enjoyed a speight of goals in the early throes of the 24/25 season, but is another to have depleted minutes following a drop in form.

Despite his experience and ability, Lowe's lack of game time suggests he may seek a fresh start elsewhere. A move to another Championship or League One club appears increasingly likely.