Sheffield Wednesday currently have just 16 first-team players under contract for the upcoming season, with six of them aged 21 or younger. This limited squad highlights the major rebuilding job ahead, as the club is set for another summer of significant turnover. At least 16 contracts are expiring, including that of Ryo Hatsuse, whose deal ends in June according to The Star. His potential departure adds to the growing list of players who could exit Hillsborough.
Given the current numbers, the Owls would struggle to field a complete matchday squad without relying heavily on their youth ranks. Three of the remaining contracted players made just 23 combined Championship appearances in the 2024/25 season, underlining the inexperience in the side. Whether it’s Danny Röhl continuing at the helm or a new manager stepping in, the task of rebuilding this squad will be both urgent and demanding.
The club has identified the 16 players still contracted to return for pre-season. This number may increase depending on the outcome of contract options and the final retained list. Where available, details of contract durations have also been included, with some extending as far as 2028.
Pierce Charles has committed to a new long-term deal and is set to stay for at least the next two seasons. The hope is he’ll step up as first-choice goalkeeper in 2025/26. Di’Shon Bernard, who joined a year ago, is under contract until 2027, while veteran defender Dominic Iorfa has one year remaining and is on track to reach 200 club appearances.
Max Lowe, a regular and fan favourite, signed a two-year contract last summer. Meanwhile, club stalwart Liam Palmer is not believed to be out of contract this year despite speculation about his future. Yan Valery, who made a solid impression in his debut campaign, reportedly signed a three-year deal after his six-figure transfer.
New signing Gabriel Otegbayo joined in February, and while the exact length of his contract is unknown, it certainly extends beyond this season. Midfielder Nathaniel Chalobah had a challenging start but is contracted for another year, having initially signed a two-year deal.
Swedish midfielder Svante Ingelsson made a positive impact after his move to England and is expected to play a bigger role next season. He has one year left on his deal with an optional extra year. Promising youngster Sean Fusire, who was loaned to Carlisle, extended his contract in January, potentially keeping him at the club until 2028.
Jamal Lowe, after a mixed campaign, enters the final year of his deal, hoping for a more consistent season. Charlie McNeill has room to grow, having signed a three-year contract with an optional extra year. Djeidi Gassama, who had some bright moments during the season, is in the last year of his current contract, and there are hopes for an extension.
Olaf Kobacki struggled with injuries but has shown promise. He’s tied to a four-year deal signed last summer. Bailey Cadamarteri is aiming to make a strong return following his loan spell at Lincoln City and is under contract until 2028. Lastly, Ike Ugbo, whose debut season was disappointing, still has three years remaining on his contract and will be eager to prove himself next season.
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