One of League One’s most interesting transfer sagas has seemingly come to an end, with reports emerging that Wycombe have had a £1.3 million bid accepted by Barnsley for their current captain Luca Connell. If these reports are to be believed, the Chairboys’ persistence has seemingly paid off.
After seeing two previous offers rejected, Wycombe’s determination to land the Irish international speaks volumes about their ambitions for the upcoming campaign. But what exactly are they getting for the seven-figure price tag, and can Luca Connell be the missing piece in their promotion puzzle?
A Player Profile
At 24 years of age, Luca Connell represents the archetypal modern midfielder – a player whose skillset extends far beyond the traditional boundaries of his position. The Liverpool born midfielder possesses the physical presence to control the engine room whilst maintaining the technical ability to dictate play form deeper positions.
Connell’s journey to Oakwell began at Bolton Wanderers’ academy before a move to Scottish giants Celtic in 2019 at just 18 years old. Though his time north if the border was limited to three first team appearances, the experience of training alongside elite level players and working under high pressure environments has clearly shaped his development. His arrival at Barnsley in 2022 on a free transfer has proven to be one of the shrewdest pieces of business in recent League One history.
Since putting on the red shirt, Luca Connell has established himself as one of the division’s most prevalent midfielders, racking up 123 appearances for the Tykes across all competitions. His rapid ascension to captaincy speaks to both his leadership qualities and the esteem in which he is held by teammates and coaching staff alike.
Operating best on the half turn, Connell thrives in and around his own box. Seemingly unpressable at times, his composure and vision on the ball make him a near perfect transitional midfielder at this level. When on form Connell is unplayable, yet the question remains whether he can recapture the consistency we saw under Micheal Duff in his maiden season at Oakwell.
Since Duff’s departure, Connell’s form has been notably inconsistent. With lengthy spells on the sidelines due to illness, the past two campaigns saw periods where he struggled to replicate the high standards he set under Duff, leading to questions about whether his excellent form was partly system dependant.
Though questions on his consistency remain, there is an undoubtable talent in Connell that is impossible to ignore. Perhaps a change of scenery is what he needs to reignite the spark that saw him become one of the most dominant midfielders in League One throughout Barnsley’s playoff run under Duff.
What sets Connell apart is his ability to contribute in both phases of play. His defensive work rate is commendable with an astute ability to break up play. Meanwhile, his attacking contributions have been equally as impressive during his peak periods, with his deep lying playmaking ability allowing him to create chances when opportunities arise.
Tactical Fit at Wigan
Wycombe’s interest in Connell makes perfect sense when considering their style of play and promotion ambitions. The Chairboys have long been renowned for their organised, disciplined approach and Connell’s profile fits seamlessly into this philosophy.
Operating primarily as a defensive midfielder, Connell would provide an anchor for Wycombe’s back line while offering the passing range to initiate attacks from deep. His ability to read the game and break up play at his own pace could prove invaluable for a side looking for a return to the Championship.
The 24-year old’s versatility is another asset that makes him so appealing. His experience working in different systems and roles within the midfield means he is likely better to adapt to the demands of a new tactical setup with Wycombe. Whether he is needed to sit deep as a holding midfielder, operate as a box-to-box player, or even push forward into more advanced areas when required.
Worth the investment?
For a Wycombe side that narrowly missed promotion last season, Connell represents the type of signing that could tip the balance in their favour. Strengthening their own midfield whilst weakening that of an immediate promotion rival is one factor in advocating for this move. With that being said, the £1.3 million fee represents a significant outlay for a League One club. At 24, he is close to entering his prime years and has the scope to improve further, particularly if he can find some real consistency in his performances.
The key question for Wycombe is whether they can unlock the version of Connell that flourished under Micheal Duff. His dip in form since Duff’s departure raises legitimate concerns about his ability to perform at a high-level week in week out. However, as mentioned before, a change of scenery and fresh tactical approach could light the spark that made him one of the divisions most coveted players.
If completed, this deal would mean Wycombe receive a player of high technical ability, physical presence and leadership. Though guilty of sometimes overcomplicating the game for himself, Connell is ridiculously talented for this level and would slot into the midfield of any side within the 24. The pursuit of Connell signals Wycombe’s ambition and willingness to invest in proven League One quality – even if that quality comes with question marks that only time will answer.
