Sheffield Wednesday have missed out on the signing of Josh Stones after the forward agreed new terms with York City.
Henrik Pedersen was eyeing a move for the 22-year-old following a stellar year in the National League, with his 17 goals helping the Minstermen gain promotion back into the EFL.
City Strike Deal
It was reported over the weekend that Sheffield Wednesday had submitted a bid to York for Stones, who has prior League One experience with Wigan Athletic.
However, that offer was publicly rejected by City owner Matt Uggla, who stated that there was no fee that could be paid that could convince Stuart Maynard’s side to sell.
Now, according to Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, Stones has struck a new deal to remain in North Yorkshire, locking him down for the foreseeable future as they aim to challenge at the very top of League Two next season.
Arriving at the LNER Community Stadium in January 2025, Stones became an immediate success under first manager Adam Hinshelwood, but came on leaps and bounds in his first full season after the appointment of former Notts County boss Maynard.
Partnered alongside Ollie Pearce, the duo was a major source of the club’s 114 goals across the whole National League campaign, and it was Stones who scored the decisive goal on the final day against Rochdale that clinched the fifth-tier title.
Where Do Wednesday Go Next?
Arguably their best prospect of all the strikers they have explored in the market, it is perhaps a big blow to Henrik Pedersen’s plans that they have failed to sign Josh Stones.
Ultimately, it may have been a fight they were never going to be able to win, given York City co-owner Matt Uggla’s public adoration for his striker, who he also rebuffed interest for in January.
Sheffield Wednesday do have other options on the cards though, having previously been linked with Callum Paterson and Joe Taylor since the opening of the summer window.
The latter may be just out of reach, considering the high demands that Huddersfield Town are demanding for the ex-Luton Town man, and could even be outflanked with interest from Bristol City and elsewhere.
Unless another option emerges soon, then the Owls may indeed settle on a familiar face in Paterson, who has not slowed down since swapping Hillsborough for Milton Keynes Dons.
Aiding Paul Warne’s side to promotion last season, the 31-year-old would be servicable in League One again, but with a lot of focus going on younger profile players, it may not be the best of choices.
