Exclusive:Chris Waddle fires warning to Sheffield Wednesday after link to outgoing Stockport County man Odin Bailey
Chris Waddle fires a warning to Sheffield Wednesday after an intriguing Owls transfer link
Sheffield Wednesday legend Chris Waddle has warned the Owls could face Championship competition for free agent Odin Bailey.
Eyebrows were raised when Stockport County published their 2026 retained list and confirmed Bailey was not being retained.
The 26-year-old, an attack-minded midfielder, was instrumental in Stockport’s run to the League One play-off final last season.
Wednesday have been credited with interest in the playmaker, who is a product of Birmingham City’s academy and represented England at youth level.
Chris Waddle on Sheffield Wednesday link to free agent playmaker
Waddle believes Bailey would add vital League One experience to the Owls ranks, but feels there will be other clubs vying for his signature.
“He did well for Stockport in this division,” Waddle told The Yorkshire Post via NewBettingOffers. “He's got the experience in this league, there’s been talk of a lot of clubs, higher in the Championships mostly, looking at him.
“All Wednesday can do is talk to the guy and offer him a deal. He's a plus, put it that way. He's not going to be somebody who we don't know, or has no experience in the game, or in that league.
“He's played in that league now, he's had good reports and people do rate him quite highly in that division. Wednesday I'm sure I will be looking, but there will be a lot of other clubs and maybe some in the Championship.”
Stockport County connection
Simon Wilson is set to take up the role of sporting director at Wednesday having played a key role in Stockport’s resurgence.
Bailey is a player Wilson knows well and the connection could prove handy for Wednesday if a transfer tussle does materialise.
The free agent made a total of 140 appearances for Stockport before his release was confirmed, registering 12 goals and 17 assists. His final appearance for the club game at Wembley, when Stockport were swept aside by Bolton Wanderers in the League One play-off final.