Sheffield Wednesday are closing in on much-needed reinforcements in the January transfer window, with a loan deal agreed in principle with Manchester City, can exclusively confirm.
The Owls appear destined for relegation from the Championship this season, having been hit with multiple EFL points deductions that have left them on minus seven points with 21 games still to play.
Wednesday have been in administration since late October, following the departure of owner Dejphon Chansiri. Prospective new owner James Bord is yet to formally take control at Hillsborough, pending the completion of fit-and-proper-person checks. As a result, head coach Henrik Pedersen continues to operate under strict transfer restrictions.
Due to financial breaches under the previous regime, Sheffield Wednesday are unable to pay transfer fees until the summer of 2027. However, the club has once again been granted special dispensation to sign two loan players on so-called “free” deals.
That arrangement mirrors the deal that brought Manchester United left-back Harry Amass to the club last summer, with United covering the teenager’s wages to allow him to gain first-team experience. Amass has since returned to Old Trafford and is expected to move elsewhere within the Championship.
Sheffield Wednesday closing in on Jaden Heskey loan
Wednesday will need similar support from Premier League clubs this month, and it appears they have made a breakthrough with Manchester City. FLW understands the Owls are advancing talks to sign City midfielder Jaden Heskey on loan for the remainder of the 2025/26 season, with an agreement already struck in principle between the two clubs.
The 20-year-old — son of former England striker Emile Heskey — is yet to make a Premier League appearance, but he did feature for City’s senior side last season. Heskey made his first-team debut alongside his younger brother Reigan in an EFL Cup tie against Huddersfield Town in September, coming off the bench in the 76th minute under Pep Guardiola.
Heskey captains Manchester City’s Under-21s and has been a regular in Ben Wilkinson’s side in Premier League 2. He has also impressed in cup competition, registering two assists in a 5–1 victory over Oldham Athletic in the EFL Trophy earlier this campaign.
Sheffield Wednesday are long-term admirers of the midfielder and now appear close to securing his services, with City willing to sanction the move to provide the youngster with valuable senior experience.
Midfield reinforcement badly needed
Pedersen’s midfield options have been stretched throughout the season. Club captain Barry Bannan, now 36, has started every league match so far, while Nathaniel Chalobah remains sidelined through injury. Svante Ingelsson has been the only other senior option available, with youngster Jarvis Thornton recently drafted into the side.
The potential arrival of Heskey would provide a timely boost as Wednesday battle to stabilise their squad during a turbulent period on and off the pitch.
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