Sheffield Wednesday Is Having Formal Talks With A Free Agent, But Faces A Battle In France
The Star has been informed that Sheffield Wednesday and Ian Poveda have started “formal discussions” over a summer free transfer deal.
Poveda has been the subject of Owls interest for a few weeks now; The Star revealed early in the month that he was considered a top target for the next summer. After an impressive loan stay last time around, it appears that interest has now been formalized and that the attacker has had preliminary contract negotiations over the prospect of signing him permanently.
The Colombian international’s tenure at Leeds United came to an end earlier this month when the West Yorkshire club officially announced his release. As a result, the 24-year-old’s Elland Road contract will finish at the end of June, making him a free agent. Due to his age and unique style, a number of teams are said to be interested in signing him this summer. Before a last-minute modification turned Poveda’s January relocation to S6 into a loan, the arrangement was originally described as permanent.
In addition to other Championship teams who were previously believed to be interested in Poveda, such as Cardiff City, West Brom, and Luton Town, The Star has learned that Poveda is also being courted by an unidentified Ligue 1 team. Wednesday is hoping that Poveda’s development at S6 in the second part of the previous season makes them the most appealing offer. His fan favorite status among Owls supporters and his good working relationship with manager Danny Röhl are also expected to be major factors in the Owls’ selection.
Wednesday has so far seen activity in the transfer market. Ben Hamer, an experienced goalie, has signed on and will join the Owls when his contract with Watford expires. Max Lowe, a left-sided defender, has also joined, and he will join S6 after leaving local rival Sheffield United. Yan Valery, a right-back who previously collaborated with Röhl at Southampton, has agreed to join from the French club Angers, and his transfer is anticipated to be finalized this week.
Poveda’s arrival would be a nice boost to Wednesday’s offensive lineup. While talks to bring Ike Ugbo back following a similarly successful loan term last season have stalled, negotiations on a new contract for Josh Windass appear to be nearing a deadlock.
