Confirmed: Big Sheffield Wednesday reveal involving Josh Windass and Barry Bannan emerges | OneFootball

Seven Owls will depart the club following the expiration of their contracts

Sheffield Wednesday have revealed their retained list following the conclusion of the campaign.

The list outlines several key decisions regarding the future of the squad as the critical summer transfer window approaches, with the club facing a significant rebuilding period amid ongoing discussions about the club's direction.

Seven Owls are set to depart Hillsborough following the expiration of their contracts, including Marvin Johnson and Michael Ihiekwe, while popular loanees James Beadle and Shea Charles are among the three players returning to their parent clubs.

Barry Bannan offered new Sheffield Wednesday contract as Josh Windass, Anthony Musaba extensions activated

Club captain Barry Bannan has been offered a new contract that could see him extend his remarkable Owls service beyond a decade.

The influential Scottish midfielder, who joined Wednesday in 2015, has become a talismanic figure at Hillsborough, amassing over 400 appearances in the blue and white stripes.

The Owls have also moved decisively to secure the services of top scorer Josh Windass by exercising the one-year extension option in his contract.

Windass, whose name has frequently appeared in transfer speculation due to his attacking contributions, will remain at Hillsborough for at least another season, providing a significant boost to the squad's creativity.

Wednesday have further triggered an extension option for exciting Dutch winger Anthony Musaba. The former AS Monaco prospect has shown raw flashes of brilliance throughout his Owls stay, and represents an important asset for the club's future plans.

Experienced striker Michael Smith has also had his contract option activated, ensuring the prolific forward's aerial presence and finishing ability remain at the club's disposal for the upcoming season.

Defenders Akin Famewo and versatile utility player Callum Paterson have been offered new deals alongside Bannan as the club looks to maintain stability and experience within the squad.

Seven players released as Sheffield Wednesday look to rebuild squad for 2025/26 campaign

The club has confirmed the departure of seven players whose contracts will not be renewed. Stuart Armstrong, Ben Hamer, Ryo Hatsuse, Michael Ihiekwe, Marvin Johnson, Pol Valentin, and Mallik Wilks will all leave Hillsborough following the expiration of their current deals.

Additionally, loan players James Beadle, Ibrahim Cissoko, and Shea Charles will return to their parent clubs after their temporary spells with the Owls.

Wednesday's retention of key performers like Bannan and Windass signals the club's intent to build on the foundations of this season's squad while allowing room for summer recruitment to strengthen in areas vacated by departing players.

The club's announcement comes just a day ahead of the May 17th EFL deadline for player retained lists, addressing some of the immediate squad concerns while larger questions about the club's future remain.

Whether under current ownership or new stewardship, Wednesday's immediate priority will be establishing a coherent recruitment strategy for the coming weeks.