Sheffield Wednesday can replace Josh Windass - These 3 replacements would be perfect at Hillsborough | OneFootball

If Windass was to ultimately leave, the Owls would need like-for-like replacements who fit Wednesday’s budget and playing style.

With Josh Windass out of contract this summer and his future unsettled, Sheffield Wednesday face a tough task.

The 31-year-old has been a key figure at Hillsborough, scoring 52 goals in 180 appearances, but has now been linked to a move abroad which would spell the end to his time in South Yorkshire.

His direct style allows him to be able to play across the forward line and hit fast counters, which has suited Danny Röhl’s counter-attacking system, which relies on quick wing play and forward passes.

If Windass was to ultimately leave, the Owls would need like-for-like replacements who fit Wednesday’s budget and playing style. Below are three realistic candidates who tick those boxes.

Aaron Collins (Bolton Wanderers)

The 27-year-old Welsh forward is a proven goalscorer at EFL level. Collins exploded at Bristol Rovers, scoring 16 goals with 12 assists in 2022/23, and moved on to Bolton in 2023.

He brings pace and directness similar to Windass, and can play on either wing or as a striker. Collins won League One’s Player of the Year award in 2023 for his fine form but would likely come at a cost given his current contract keeps him in Greater Manchester until 2027. In Röhl’s system he could stretch defenses on the counter and finish chances with both feet, offering the kind of all-action attacking threat the Owls would sorely miss if Windass departs.

Much like Windass, Collins is comfortable playing out wide or centrally. He presses with intensity, stretches defences with smart runs in behind, and isn’t afraid to take defenders on. Crucially, he’s also a team-first player who doesn’t drift in and out of games, making him a consistent performer, the kind Röhl clearly values.

Financially, Collins would be a realistic option though. Bolton’s budget isn’t astronomical, and if the Owls are willing to spend modestly or structure a clever deal, they could persuade the Trotters to sell, especially if Collins wants to push a move out of the third tier.

Jesurun Rak-Sakyi (Crystal Palace)

This one might raise eyebrows given his loan spell at cross-city rivals Sheffield United — but putting emotion aside, Jesurun Rak-Sakyi would be a top-tier replacement for Josh Windass if another move becomes available.

The 22-year-old winger made his name during a stellar 2022/23 season with Charlton Athletic, where he bagged 15 goals and 8 assists in League One. Since then, he’s been loaned to the Blades in 2023/24, although injuries and limited minutes hampered his ability to make a major impact.

Still, his talent is undeniable. Rak-Sakyi thrives in transition, has quick feet, and can beat a man with ease. These are all traits that fit Danny Röhl’s high-tempo setup at Hillsborough. Like Windass, he can operate across the forward line, bringing a mix of flair and goal threat.

While some fans might initially resist a move for someone who is still registered as a Blade, what matters most is quality, and Rak-Sakyi has it in abundance. With his Palace pathway to the Premier League still blocked, another Championship transfer is still likely, even after the completion of this season. Wednesday could present a perfect platform for him to reignite his momentum, and maybe even write his own chapter in the blue half of Sheffield.

Callum Lang (Portsmouth FC)

Callum Lang has adapted perfectly well to Championship football since joining Portsmouth, netting 10 goals in 32 league matches this season. His goal involvement (0.37 per 90 minutes) places him among the division’s most effective forwards, and his ability to deliver both at home and away underlines his consistency.

Much like the other two players on this list, Lang can operate across the front line-whether as a second striker, winger, or attacking midfielder. His relentless pressing and direct running make him a natural fit for Sheffield Wednesday’s high-energy approach. Lang’s two assists and 22 key passes this season highlight his creative side, while his crossing ability (54 crosses, 22% success rate) adds another dimension.

With Portsmouth’s forward line well-stocked and Lang under contract until 2026, a deal would require a strong pitch from Wednesday, but the move is realistic given the club’s need for a proven, energetic attacker and Lang’s proven output at this level.