Sheffield Wednesday are reportedly considering a move for former Norwich City winger Onel Hernandez, who is currently available on a free transfer following his release at the end of last season. However, the Owls may face significant challenges in securing his services as they grapple with pressing squad deficiencies. Read more about Norwich Launches Mobility Bus Service for Matchday Access.
After the lifting of their transfer embargo, Wednesday have struggled to build on a shaky start to their Championship campaign, suffering two consecutive defeats that have left them at the bottom of the table, alongside local rivals Sheffield United. Although they delivered a spirited performance in their opening match against Leicester City, narrowly losing 2-1, the subsequent 3-0 defeat at home to Stoke City highlighted the urgent need for reinforcements. Read more about Kovacevic Embraces Championship Challenge After Portsmouth Win.
New head coach Henrik Pedersen is acutely aware of the squad's limitations. With only 16 senior players available, the bench during their first two league fixtures has featured several youth players, underscoring the immediate requirement for more experienced signings. According to the Sheffield Star, Hernandez has been training with the Owls, integrating into a squad that is eager for enhanced quality and depth. Read more about Ashton Shines as Crewe's Prodigy Before Untimely Exit.
Nonetheless, Wednesday face considerable obstacles in finalising any potential agreement. Financial limitations remain a significant concern, even after the transfer embargo was lifted. The club's ability to recruit new players hinges on owner Dejphon Chansiri demonstrating that he has the financial resources to meet wage commitments consistently. Recent events have not inspired confidence; the club has experienced difficulties in paying player wages on time, with four late payments recorded in the last five months. They only managed to fulfil their wage obligations at the end of July due to receiving a Premier League solidarity payment—a financial boost that will not recur until January.
As highlighted by BBC Sheffield’s Andy Giddings last week, the English Football League's Club Financial Reporting Unit (CFRU) continues to enforce stringent regulations on new signings, necessitating a robust business plan that proves Sheffield Wednesday can meet their financial obligations. This scrutiny has hampered the club's ability to secure new players, including a failed deal for former Leeds United defender Liam Cooper, which collapsed just prior to their match against Stoke.
With the club's financial situation under close examination and a potential sale of Sheffield Wednesday not appearing likely in the near future, the chances of bringing in Hernandez or any other players remain uncertain. The Owls' need for fresh talent becomes increasingly pressing, but the realities of their financial constraints continue to overshadow their efforts.
As the transfer window progresses, the search for reinforcements remains ongoing amidst an atmosphere of uncertainty.