Sheffield Wednesday could turn to Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion as they prepare for another promotion challenge next season.
Sheffield Wednesday head coach Carlos Carvalhal
Sheffield Wednesday already know which division they will be in next season and now they know who their manager will be, after Carlos Carvalhal agreed to extend his contract at Hillsborough.
The Portuguese will hope it’s a case of third time lucky in his quest to restore the Owls’ long-lost Premier League status, and can expect to be backed by chairman Dejphon Chansiri in the transfer market.
In his two previous summers, Carvalhal has often sought tried and tested Championship performers, with Ross Wallace, Daniel Pudil, Fernando Forestieri, Almen Abdi, David Jones and Adam Reach all brought in from recently promoted sides.
And it would come as little surprise to see the 51-year-old adopt a similar policy this time around.
With Newcastle United and Brighton & Hove Albion the top flight’s latest newcomers, which of their players should the Owls target?
Here are three realistic options:
Beram Kayal [Brighton & Hove Albion]
Brighton midfielder Beram Kayal
A key member of the Brighton side beaten by Wednesday in last season’s play-off semi-finals, Kayal struggled with injuries during the Seagulls’ promotion campaign and made only 20 appearances. Chris Hughton’s side have already added to their midfield ranks and further strengthening could see the former Celtic midfielder struggle for opportunities. Wednesday aren’t the same without Sam Hutchinson, and Kayal could replicate the often-absent star’s bite.
Grant Hanley [Newcastle United]
Newcastle United defender Grant Hanley [left]
A reported target last summer, the Owls were subsequently blown out of the water by Newcastle for Hanley. The imposing centre-back is exactly what Carvalhal’s side have lacked at times these past two campaigns and is expected to be available, with the Magpies pursuing higher-profile alternatives in his position.
Jamie Murphy [Brighton & Hove Albion]
Brighton & Hove Albion winger Jamie Murphy [right]
With Callum McManaman and Will Buckley set to return to their parent clubs and not come back, Wednesday are likely to add in wide areas this summer. Scotland international Murphy, whose future may be at risk following the Seagulls’ ascent, has scored eight goals and created as many in 51 Championship starts for Brighton and could be a shrewd recruit for the Owls – provided both parties can overlook his time with that lot down the road.
Which Newcastle United/Brighton & Hove Albion players would you like Sheffield Wednesday to sign?
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