Marco Matias out of contract, Rolando Aarons’ loan expiring, Adam Reach the club’s most saleable asset in what’s shaping up to be a difficult window financially – there are many reasons why Sheffield Wednesday are likely to target at least one new winger this summer.
Even if a major sale does occur, however, the Owls may need to scour the cheaper end of the market for reinforcements.
And one player soon to be out of contract in Scotland should be under consideration – at least in this writer’s opinion.
Even in his own country (a market in which the Owls boss, Steve Bruce, has been known to operate) few had heard of Motherwell’s Jake Hastie before the turn of this year.
But six goals and one assist in 11 outings since his return from a loan spell at Alloa have not only seen him gain international recognition with Scotland’s Under-21s, but flown him onto the radar of clubs such as Leeds United, Crystal Palace and Glasgow Rangers.
A direct player with pace, a skilful left foot and the ability to play on either flank, Hastie (who according to reports today is no longer bound for Rangers) could be a useful addition regardless of what happens to Reach.
And with only a minor compensation payment likely to be owed by Hastie’s next club, Wednesday would be wise to put the feelers out before someone beats them to it.