Pundit Carlton Palmer believes Sheffield Wednesday is unlikely to exceed £2.5 million to secure Troyes striker Ike Ugbo permanently this summer. The Canada international, who spent the latter half of last season on loan with the Owls, played a pivotal role in their Championship survival. However, the club faces stiff competition from Stoke City, QPR, and Birmingham for his services.
Ugbo joined Sheffield Wednesday on loan in January after a stint with Cardiff City, significantly contributing to the team’s successful bid to stay in the Championship. The Owls are keen to bring Ugbo back to Hillsborough permanently, but The Star reports that their initial offer for the 25-year-old was rejected by Troyes, who are now awaiting an improved bid.
Despite Ugbo’s reported desire to return to South Yorkshire, Wednesday’s pursuit is challenged by interest from Stoke City, Birmingham City, and Queens Park Rangers. Meanwhile, the Owls have been active in the transfer market, securing nine new signings, including James Beadle, Ben Hamer, Yan Valery, Max Lowe, Svante Ingelsson, Nathaniel Chalobah, Olaf Kobacki, Jamal Lowe, and Charlie McNeill. However, further reinforcements are needed in the forward areas.
Carlton Palmer on Ugbo’s Potential Return to Sheffield Wednesday
Speaking to Football League World, Carlton Palmer expressed doubt that Sheffield Wednesday would be willing to pay more than £2.5 million for Ugbo. However, he acknowledged that if the striker is eager to return, a deal must be reached.
“Sheffield Wednesday are receiving some fantastic news that Ike Ugbo prefers a move back to the club,” Palmer told FLW. “He was a revelation when he joined on loan in January, and Danny Rohl is keen to bring him back, but they are nowhere near close to a deal.”
Palmer noted that Troyes, who paid €3 million for Ugbo in the 2022-23 season, will likely want to recoup a similar amount. He added, “I can’t imagine the Owls wanting to pay more than £2.5 million for the player. We’ll have to wait and see, but that may give sides like Stoke and QPR an opportunity.”
QPR, poised to sell Sinclair Armstrong, may have the funds to secure Ugbo, but Palmer remains optimistic about Ugbo’s preference for Sheffield Wednesday, suggesting that a deal will eventually be reached.
Financial Constraints and Competition
While Ugbo’s goals were crucial for Sheffield Wednesday’s Championship survival, his performance waned towards the end of the season, scoring just once in the final two months. With other clubs in the mix, Ugbo’s valuation is likely to rise, posing a challenge for Wednesday, especially against financially robust clubs like Birmingham, who reportedly have a £20 million budget, and Stoke.
Though fans would be disappointed if the club fails to secure Ugbo’s return, Palmer advises caution regarding the price tag. If Ugbo’s valuation exceeds £2.5 million, Rohl must consider alternative, more affordable options.