Phil Parkinson has delivered a firm and defiant message to anyone dreaming of a Josh Windass homecoming to Rangers â the attacking midfielder is going nowhere.
In a bullish press update, the experienced Wrexham manager shut down speculation linking Windass with a sensational return to Ibrox, insisting the 32-year-old remains central to the Welsh clubâs ambitious plans.
Parkinson: “Josh Is Our Player”
Speaking candidly to the media, Parkinson made his stance crystal clear. âThere was no contact in January for Josh, not officially,â he revealed. âJosh is our player; he had a good season, and we are looking forward to him building on that next year. We are looking to add to the quality we have got, not lose it.â
The Wrexham boss was responding to growing rumours that Rangers are preparing a move to bring the former Light Blues favourite back to Glasgow. Despite the noise, Parkinson emphasised there has been no formal approach from the Scottish Premiership giants.
Windass spent two memorable seasons at Rangers between 2016 and 2018, becoming a cult hero for his energetic performances and eye for goal. He netted 13 goals in 55 Premiership appearances during that spell, creating lasting memories for the Ibrox faithful with his direct running and clinical finishing.
Windass’ Heroic Season at Wrexham
After leaving Rangers, Windass went on to play for Sheffield Wednesday before joining Wrexham on a free transfer last summer. What followed was nothing short of a remarkable renaissance. In his debut campaign at the Racecourse Ground, Windass exploded into form, scoring an impressive 17 goals in 46 appearances across all competitions â 16 of those coming in the league.
His stellar performances helped propel Wrexham to a credible seventh-place finish in the EFL Championship, just missing out on the play-offs. The attacking midfielderâs creativity, leadership, and goal threat earned him the clubâs Player of the Season award, cementing his status as one of the standout performers in the second tier.
At 32, Windass has shown no signs of slowing down. His experience, combined with a renewed hunger after thriving under Parkinsonâs guidance, has made him a hot property once again. It was always inevitable that bigger clubs would start circling, especially with Rangers looking to strengthen their attacking options ahead of another tilt at domestic and European success.
Wrexham’s Rising Ambition Under Parkinson
Phil Parkinson has been quick to acknowledge the interest but remains relaxed about it. âI think we would be disappointed if there wasn’t some interest in our players,â he added. âIt is inevitable, but we have got the key players we want on long contracts, and we are in a good position on that front. We are looking to build on what we did last year and improve the squad to make us really competitive again.â
Wrexhamâs rapid rise has been one of English footballâs most compelling stories in recent years. Backed by Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, the club has transformed from non-league strugglers to a serious Championship outfit in record time. Parkinson, a seasoned manager with a reputation for building resilient teams, has been instrumental in that journey.
His no-nonsense approach and man-management skills have turned Wrexham into a tight-knit unit capable of competing against clubs with far greater resources. Retaining key assets like Windass is vital if they are to push for promotion to the Premier League in the coming seasons.
Emotional Pull of Ibrox Return
For Rangers supporters, the prospect of Windass returning to Ibrox carries significant emotional weight. During his first spell at the club, he arrived as a promising young talent and left as a proven performer in Scottish football. Many fans still remember his important goals and wholehearted displays in the famous blue jersey.
A return at this stage of his career could provide Rangers with a ready-made, experienced option who already understands the intensity and expectations at one of Britainâs biggest clubs. At 32, Windass offers maturity and leadership in the final third â qualities that could prove valuable in domestic cup competitions and European campaigns.
However, Parkinsonâs firm comments suggest Wrexham are in no mood to facilitate an easy exit. With Windass likely tied down to a long-term deal, any potential move would require a substantial offer to tempt the Welsh club. Rangers would also need to weigh up whether the financial outlay matches the playerâs current output and age profile.
Strategic Implications for Both Clubs
This situation highlights the growing competition between English clubs backed by ambitious ownership and traditional Scottish powerhouses. Wrexhamâs Hollywood connection gives them financial muscle and global appeal, allowing them to attract and retain talent that might otherwise head elsewhere.
For Rangers, the summer transfer window is critical. With pressure mounting to close the gap on Celtic and perform strongly in Europe, manager Philippe Clement (or whoever is in charge) needs reinforcements who can hit the ground running. Windass fits that profile perfectly due to his prior knowledge of the league and club culture.
Yet Parkinson remains focused on his own project. âWe are looking forward to him building on that next year,â he reiterated, signalling clear plans for Windass to be a cornerstone of Wrexhamâs midfield and attack once again.
Windass himself has stayed largely silent on the speculation, concentrating on pre-season preparations. Those close to the player suggest he is happy at Wrexham but would always listen to any approach from Rangers given his history there.
What Happens Next?
As the transfer window heats up, all eyes will be on whether Rangers decide to test Wrexhamâs resolve with a formal bid. Parkinson has drawn a clear line in the sand, but in football, persistence and the right financial package can often change minds.
For now, Josh Windass remains a Wrexham player through and through, and the Hollywood clubâs bullish stance has put a significant dampener on any immediate Ibrox homecoming dreams.
Rangers fans will undoubtedly continue to reminisce about Windassâ previous contributions while hoping for a late twist. Meanwhile, Wrexham supporters can breathe a sigh of relief knowing their Player of the Season is staying put â at least for the time being.
With both clubs entering crucial phases of their respective rebuilds, this story is far from over. Football transfers have a habit of delivering surprises right up until deadline day.