Wrexham star must be ‘realistic’ about Ryan Reynolds & Rob McElhenney wish as ‘goodbye’ transfer warning is sounded

The experienced frontman will turn 33 in January and is already planning for life after football after making the most of marketing expertise in the SToK Racecourse boardroom to launch his own clothing range. Garments will become more important than goals at some stage.

For now, Palmer is very much part of Phil Parkinson’s plans in North Wales. He has helped to provide cover from Paul Mullin during the prolific Wrexham striker’s injury absence, with two goals being recorded this season.

Palmer has made no secret of the fact that he would like to retire in North Wales, but former EFL star Carlton Palmer has told Football League World that more departures from Wrexham are inevitable. The ex-England international said: “He’s been an integral part of Wrexham’s rise. I still think he’s got a big part to play, the big centre-forward. He was very integral as Phil Parkinson masterminded two successive promotions to take Wrexham from the National League to League One.

“He’s come out, Ollie, and said that he wants to stay there as long as possible, he wants to continue the journey, but obviously as you keep progressing you have to say goodbye to players on that journey - Ben Tozer and Luke Young both left the club in the summer, as a result of that. With his experience I think he’s still got a big future and part to play. He’s been a vital presence since he joined from AFC Wimbledon in January 2022.

“He will be desperate to shine again this season. He said he wants to finish his career with Wrexham, but he will be realistic about that wish. I think he still has a big role to play. He partnered Paul Mullin in the promotion season and they were outstanding together. All he can do is get his head down and see what happens. We will have to wait and see what impact he has over the course of the season.”

Palmer’s contract at Wrexham is due to expire in the summer of 2025 – when he will hit fee agency if no extension is agreed. Since linking up with the Red Dragons, he has found the target on 43 occasions through 123 appearances.