"I've heard" - Journalist names Derby County, Norwich City, Leicester City and Wrexham in Josh Windass update | OneFootball

A Championship quartet are vying for Josh Windass' services

Josh Windass has left Sheffield Wednesday after five years at the club, and four Championship clubs are looking into a move for the versatile forward.

Windass was one of the players who tendered their notice after failing to receive payment for two months running and has now officially exited Hillsborough.

The 31-year-old was in flying form for the Owls last term, scoring 13 times and assisting a further five goals in 44 Championship outings, ending the campaign as the club's top scorer.

Windass will be in high demand this summer, especially as he is available on a free transfer, with news already emerging about potential interested parties.

Wrexham, Norwich City, Derby County and Leicester City keen on Josh Windass

The forward’s future was only officially communicated on Thursday, but there are already numerous clubs vying for his signature.

According to GiveMeSport journalist Tom Bogert via X, a quartet of Sheffield Wednesday's divisional rivals - Wrexham, Norwich City, Derby County and Leicester City - have all emerged as early candidates to secure Windass’ services.

The 31-year-old is expected to make a decision on his future next week, with Italian outfit Genoa also offering an option across the continent.

Windass has previously been linked to a whole host of Championship teams, whilst also reportedly attracting interest from Scottish giants Rangers.

The attacker signed for the Owls in 2020 after an initial loan spell from Wigan Athletic.

He scored 50 goals for the Steel City side in that time, providing 22 assists during that period.

Michael Smith also exited Hillsborough after handing in his notice, which means that Wednesday have lost a great deal of quality and experience from their frontline.

Josh Windass has a wealth of options – He must choose his next move wisely

It was only natural for a large number of clubs to register their interest in Windass once his Hillsborough exit was officially confirmed, with the forward punishing a great deal of them on the pitch last term.

18 goal contributions in a mid-table Championship team is an impressive return, and due to the fact that he is available for free, Windass could become one of the most in-demand players of the summer.

The list of clubs reported by Bogert varies quite extensively, from promoted sides to those fresh off Premier League relegation, with second-tier regulars also included in that mix.

Leicester City may prove to be the most tempting prospect, as they ought to be in the fight for the title, but it would also come with the risk of limited playing time.

An exciting project at Wrexham will naturally appeal to the 31-year-old, who could boost his own profile whilst joining a team on a clear upward trajectory.

Derby County and Norwich City would represent more of a sideways move when compared to Wednesday’s performance last term, however may also offer the most stability.

Time will tell where Windass ends up this summer, but the ball is firmly in his court.