Sheffield Wednesday eyeing move for ex-Burnley and Southampton attacker | OneFootball

Nathan Redmond is the latest name linked to Hillsborough

Former Norwich City and Southampton forward Nathan Redmond is the latest name added to Sheffield Wednesday’s transfer shortlist.

The Owls have been granted special dispensation from the EFL to sign two free agents following further injury losses to their threadbare squad, and the anticipated departures of Yan Valery and Sean Fusire to the African Cup of Nations.

Redmond, 31, has been a free agent since the summer upon expiry of his contract at Burnley.

The forward has enjoyed extensive stints at Norwich City and Southampton, after starting his career at Birmingham City.

A season in Turkey with Besiktas preceded his short stay at Turf Moor, but the former England international has now found himself considering his next move since August.

Nathan Redmond linked to Sheffield Wednesday move as EFL lift free agent signing ban

According to The Star, Redmond is one of several options being considered as Wednesday look to maximise their limited recruitment window.

With Liam Cooper expected to take one of the two available free-agent slots - the former Leeds United and CSKA Sofia defender is due in Sheffield today to finalise terms - the club’s second signing must be chosen carefully.

Henrik Pedersen is understood to have already weighed up alternative candidates, including Andy Rinomhota before his move to Reading, Timothy Fosu-Mensah, and Duncan Watmore.

But Redmond’s experience at the top level, coupled with his ability to play multiple positions, appears to make him a strong contender.

The forward has also kept himself fit during his spell without a club, having trained with Sheffield United earlier this autumn - a brief stint that, while not leading to a contract, suggested he remains sharp enough to slot into Championship action soon.

The new arrivals come after Wednesday settled outstanding debts to overseas clubs, enabling the EFL to lift their transfer embargo.

Combined with a recent surge in matchday and merchandise income - credited to supporters ending their boycott following administration - the club now has short-term stability to make essential additions ahead of a crucial run of fixtures.

Wednesday boosted on and off the pitch as Steel City Derby approaches

The timing could hardly be more significant. The Steel City derby is the Owls’ next fixture, with Sheffield United heading to Hillsborough on Sunday afternoon.

Wednesday remain bottom of the Championship on -4 points following their 12-point deduction, and while Pedersen has overseen spirited performances, depth and experience remain glaring issues.

Any new arrival able to feature in the derby, or soon after, would provide a considerable lift.

There has also been a boost on the left side of defence: Manchester United have opted not to recall Harry Amass in January.

The 18-year-old loanee has become an ever-present since debuting against Bristol City, playing every minute of the last ten league matches and scoring his first senior goal against Southampton.

His continued presence removes one potential headache heading into a packed winter schedule.

Off the pitch, administrators confirmed that November and December wages will be paid on time thanks to increased revenue from returning supporters.

Eleven parties have now shown proof of funds as potential buyers, though officials continue to urge patience as the field narrows toward serious bids capable of securing the club’s long-term future.

Within that context, Wednesday’s next signing matters enormously. Cooper is expected to arrive imminently, but the second free-agent slot carries potential to further tilt the direction of the season.