Wrexham complete transfer for ex-England international striker as they chase Birmingham City
Birmingham City's promotion rivals Wrexham have made a big move in the transfer market by signing former England and Premier League striker Jay Rodriguez.
The 35-year-old has arrived from Burnley for an undisclosed fee deal until the end of the season and brings with him a wealth of experience in the top flight, Championship and even international football – having played once for England in 2013.
Rodriguez told the club website: “I’m made up to join the club. I can’t wait to get out on the training pitch and meet everyone.
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"I hope I can use my experience to help every single player in the squad and gain something from the group as well. To join the story that has evolved at Wrexham with clear targets is exciting for me.”
Rodriguez started his career with Burnley, before moving to Southampton in 2012. He has also played for West Brom in the Premier League - alongside James McClean - before returning to Turf Moor for his second spell with the Clarets in 2019.
He won promotion to the Premier League again in 2023 and arrives at Wrexham having made more than 550 appearances across his career, scoring 148 goals.
Manager Phil Parkinson said: “I’m delighted to welcome Jay Rodriguez to the Club. He’s an experienced striker with real quality and we’re looking forward to working with him.”
Wrexham already have Steven Fletcher, Ollie Palmer and Paul Mullin as options up front but have slipped behind Blues in their chase for promotion – eight points having played two games more.
They have also signed Sam Smith from Reading. Smith has scored 11 times for the Royals this season and the 26-year-old has signed a three-and-a-half-year deal with an option for an additional year.
Smith said: “It feels amazing to join the club and I’m happy that the deal is over the line,” Smith told his new club’s website.
“I’m excited to be a part of the journey now and I want to try and help the club achieve its ambitions.”
Wrexham also announced the departure of Scottish midfielder James Jones to Burton on Friday afternoon.
