Wrexham AFC wage concern issued over Aaron Cresswell - 3 alternatives Red Dragons could pursue | OneFootball

As Wrexham build for the Championship, FLW explore three smart alternatives to a costly Cresswell deal.

Wrexham’s return to the Championship after more than four decades is set to be one of the most-watched stories of the summer, and Phil Parkinson’s recruitment strategy is already under scrutiny.

With reports from Alan Nixon linking the Red Dragons to former West Ham United defender Aaron Cresswell, fans are weighing up the pros and cons of signing a 35-year-old whose Premier League experience is matched by a likely hefty wage demand.

Cresswell would undoubtedly bring composure and leadership to the newly promoted side, but questions are being raised about whether a move for such a high earner aligns with Wrexham’s long-term ambitions.

Football League World’s Wrexham fan pundit Liam Grice has voiced concern over the financial implications of any potential deal and urged the club to pursue younger, more sustainable options.

"He's a player with good experience and played at the top level last year, so on that end I wouldn't mind him, but he's 35, his wages are going to be among some of the highest in the squad, and I'm not sure whether that's who Wrexham need to be targeting," Grice told FLW.

"We should be going for younger players with more potential rather than these ageing players, but there's no doubt he'd bring invaluable experience."

With that in mind, we’ve identified three alternative left-footed defenders who could slot into the left side of Parkinson’s back three - without stretching the wage bill to breaking point.

Akin Famewo

Akin Famewo could be a smart, versatile addition to Wrexham’s defence as they prepare for life in the Championship. A left-footed centre-back with solid experience across the EFL, the 26-year-old has featured for Norwich City, Charlton, Luton, and most recently spent three seasons at Sheffield Wednesday.

Famewo is comfortable playing on the left of a back three, in a traditional back four, or even at left-back - making him an ideal fit for Phil Parkinson’s adaptable defensive setups.

While his injury record raises some concerns - he's only played over 30 games in a season twice in a decade - his quality when fit is clear.

With a new contract on the table at Hillsborough but no confirmation yet of a re-signing, Wrexham could see an opportunity to bring in a technically sound, Championship-ready defender without breaking the bank.

Cameron Burgess

If Wrexham are keen to add top-level experience without paying a transfer fee, Cameron Burgess could be a standout option.

The 29-year-old is out of contract this summer and looks set to leave Ipswich Town, where he played a key role in their rise through the divisions - the very journey the Red Dragons are trying to emulate.

Burgess made 18 Premier League appearances in the 24/25 season, chipped in with two assists, and posted impressive defensive metrics in a side that ultimately went down.

Crucially, his estimated £8,000 per week wage at Ipswich makes him a far more cost-effective option than Aaron Cresswell.

With Championship and Premier League experience, plus a strong left foot and commanding presence, Burgess offers the right blend of quality and value. For Phil Parkinson, he could represent a savvy piece of business in an increasingly competitive transfer market.

Mark McGuinness

Mark McGuinness could be a perfect target for Wrexham as they rise into the Championship while Luton Town drop out.

The 24-year-old centre-back has quietly built an excellent reputation over the past two seasons, impressing at both Cardiff City and Luton despite the clubs’ fortunes.

Last season alone, he made 43 appearances, racking up over 3,000 minutes, scoring three goals and providing three assists - strong output for a defender.

More than just numbers, McGuinness is a composed passer, progressive in possession, and dominant in both ground and aerial duels.

Still young but with significant Championship experience, he fits the profile of a player who can grow with Wrexham while contributing immediately.

With Luton now relegated and Wrexham looking to strengthen smartly, this could be the ideal moment for Phil Parkinson’s side to swoop in and secure a left-sided defender with proven quality and long-term potential.