ไทย
English
中國人
Wrexham are monitoring Swansea City midfielder Ethan Galbraith as they seek to bolster their squad during the upcoming summer transfer window.
The 25-year-old was a notable performer for Swansea in the Championship last season despite frequently being deployed out of his natural position. Galbraith is most effective as either a central or defensive midfielder but made 18 appearances as an improvised right back for the South Wales outfit.
Sports Illustrated understands that Wrexham had a formal bid for Galbraith turned down in January and continue to hold interest in securing a deal. The Northern Ireland international has already rejected Swansea's opening offer of a contract extension after joining the club from Leyton Orient just twelve months ago.
It is understood that the initial offer fell below Galbraith's expectations, and he may entertain approaches from other clubs unless Swansea raise their offer.
Wrexham are seeking a defensive midfielder this summer as they aim to ease their dependence on Ben Sheaf and Matty James. Both players endured extended absences through injury during the latter stages of the season, while James is set to turn 35 next month.
Who Is Wrexham Target Ethan Galbraith?
Galbraith cemented himself as one of the Championship's most impressive midfielders during his first season with Swansea. The Northern Ireland international arrived from League One club Leyton Orient for an undisclosed fee last summer.
The adaptable midfielder spent his formative years at various Northern Irish clubs before earning a coveted move to Manchester United. Though initially offered only a one-year scholarship, he quickly caught the eye of coaches and secured a two-year professional contract.
Galbraith made his senior debut for United in a UEFA Europa League loss to Kazakh outfit Astana in November 2019 and was rewarded with a three-year contract extension the following campaign. He subsequently had loan spells at both Doncaster Rovers and Salford City before completing a permanent transfer to Leyton Orient in 2023.
He was called up to the senior Northern Ireland squad at just 18 years of age, with manager Ian Baraclough likening him to the team's very own "Andrés Iniesta or Xavi," drawing comparisons to the iconic Barcelona midfield maestros.
"He's excelled with the under-21s, and he's a different type of player from anyone we've got in the senior squad," Baraclough said at the time. "Not to put too much pressure on his shoulders, but he's our little Andrés Iniesta or Xavi—someone who can get on the ball, manipulate it, and find positive passes."