Welcome to Sportsphere24 Updates, your trusted source for the latest football transfers and player insights. Wrexham AFC has made a significant move this summer by signing Scottish striker Ryan Hardie from Plymouth Argyle, marking their first signing ahead of their eagerly awaited return to the EFL Championship after a 43-year absence. Here’s everything you need to know about Hardie’s career, his impact, and what he brings to the Red Dragons.
Ryan Hardie Joins Wrexham: Key Details
Transfer: Signed from Plymouth Argyle for an undisclosed fee
Contract: Until the end of the 2027/28 season
Date: Announced June 16, 2025
Position: Centre-forward
Age: 28 (Born March 17, 1997, in Stranraer, Scotland)
Hardie expressed his excitement on Wrexham’s official website:
“I’m delighted to get the move done, I’m really happy to get it done so early and I cannot wait to get going. Having a full pre-season with the team will be a big advantage to integrate and understand the manager’s style.”
Career Overview and Achievements
Ryan Hardie began his professional career at Rangers, making 17 senior appearances and gaining valuable experience on loan at Raith Rovers, St Mirren, and Livingston. In 2019, he moved to Blackpool before joining Plymouth Argyle on loan in January 2020. His impact was immediate, scoring 7 goals in 13 matches and helping Plymouth secure promotion to League One.
Hardie’s journey with Plymouth has been remarkable:
Five-and-a-half years at Plymouth Argyle with 248 appearances
74 goals scored, placing him joint 12th on Plymouth’s all-time scorers list
Played a pivotal role in two promotions: from League Two (2020) and League One (2023)
Won Plymouth’s Player of the Year award for the 2024/25 season
Scored a memorable winning penalty against Liverpool in the FA Cup fourth round in 2025
Consistent Championship performer with 22 goals in 77 appearances over the last two seasons
2024/25 Season Highlights
Goals: 12 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions
Championship: 10 goals in 37 league matches, mostly scoring at home (9 of 10 goals)
Goal Involvement: 13 (goals + assists), with a high expected goals (xG) rating placing him in the top 10% of Championship forwards
Notable Performances: Hat-trick at Crewe Alexandra, late winner at Salford City, and crucial goals in promotion campaigns
What Ryan Hardie Brings to Wrexham
Experience at Championship Level: Hardie’s recent seasons in the second tier equip him to handle the rigors of Championship football.
Goal Scoring Ability: Proven track record of scoring important and consistent goals, especially at home.
Physical Presence and Work Rate: A forward who combines strength, movement, and tactical awareness.
Winning Mentality: Integral part of Plymouth’s rise through the leagues and clutch performer in big matches.
Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson will welcome Hardie’s versatility and goal threat as the club aims to establish itself in the Championship and build on their historic promotion.
Wrexham’s Ambitions and Hardie’s Role
Returning to the Championship after 43 years, Wrexham is strengthening its squad to compete at a higher level. Hardie is the first of what is expected to be several key signings. With established forwards like Sam Smith and Jay Rodriguez departing, Hardie’s arrival adds firepower and experience to a squad eager to prove itself.
Hardie commented:
“The last couple of seasons have been good for gaining Championship experience, and I hope to continue scoring and helping the team achieve its goals.”
Career Stats Summary
| Club | Appearances | Goals | Assists | Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rangers | 17 | 0 | 0 | 2015–2019 |
| Plymouth Argyle | 248 | 74 | 28 | 2020–2025 |
| Wrexham | 0 | 0 | 0 | 2025–Present |
Conclusion
Ryan Hardie’s signing marks a major statement of intent from Wrexham as they prepare for life back in the Championship. With his proven goal-scoring record, experience, and hunger for success, Hardie is set to be a key figure in Wrexham’s quest to establish themselves in the second tier of English football.
Stay tuned to Sportsphere24 Updates for exclusive coverage, match analysis, and all the latest on Ryan Hardie and Wrexham’s 2025/26 Championship campaign.