Wrexham are actively pursuing reinforcements this summer, with a central defender high on their list of priorities. While they recently secured the signing of goalkeeper Danny Ward on a free transfer—handing him a three-year contract to compete with Arthur Okonkwo—their focus has now shifted to bolstering their defensive line. However, not all transfer pursuits are going as planned. Although Fulham’s Tom Cairney has been linked, he is expected to reject a move to Wrexham.
Among the defensive targets, veteran Craig Dawson has emerged as a name of interest, but the club may have to cross off another key candidate from their shortlist. Maksym Talovierov, a Ukrainian centre-back who impressed at Plymouth Argyle after arriving from Austrian side LASK in January, appears to be on his way to Championship side Stoke City. Talovierov quickly won over the Plymouth fans with his tough, committed performances, and had reportedly caught the eye of Phil Parkinson following Argyle’s relegation to League One.
Despite Wrexham’s reported interest dating back to May, Stoke City are now said to be closing in on a deal for the 25-year-old defender. Journalist Pete O’Rourke has reported that Mark Robins’ side are making strong progress toward securing the player, aiming to strengthen their push for a top-half finish in the Championship—something they haven’t achieved since being relegated from the Premier League in 2018. Talovierov could become an important figure in that effort, and his potential arrival at the Bet365 Stadium would mark another missed opportunity for Wrexham in the transfer market.
Financially, Talovierov’s future could hinge on a relegation clause in his contract. Plymouth reportedly paid around £1.7 million to sign him earlier this year, and they’ll likely seek to recoup that amount if he is sold. Speaking to Tribuna in his native Ukraine, Talovierov confirmed that Stoke City have submitted an offer. While he hasn’t made a final decision yet, he admitted he’s currently considering the proposal: “There is interest, but I am studying the offer and am currently in Plymouth.”
Although Wrexham might still have a narrow window to make a late move, Stoke appear to be the likelier destination. Should the deal go through, Talovierov would face Wrexham twice next season—first on October 18 in Stoke, and again on April 18, 2026, at the STōK Cae Ras.
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