An update on the future of Sheffield Wednesday’s Will Grainger after Everton link
Sheffield Wednesday are reportedly close to tying Will Grainger down to a new contract amid interest from the Premier League.
In a dismal 2025/26 season for the Owls, the emergence of so many promising young players was a reason to be hopeful.
Will Grainger has already made eight senior appearances for Sheffield Wednesday.placeholder image
Will Grainger has already made eight senior appearances for Sheffield Wednesday. | Steve Ellis
Will Grainger agreement ‘close’
The BBC recently credited Everton with interest in the teenage prospect, who represents Wales at youth level. It was a link that worried Wednesday fans, who are keen to see Grainger fulfil his potential with the Owls.
However, worries have been eased by a report claiming progress has been made in contract negotiations. According to The Wednesday Word, Wednesday are close to finalising a new long-term deal for Grainger.
17-year-old can commit to a maximum of three years and it would make sense for Wednesday to target that length.
Grainger may be raw but proved last season that he can be a handful for senior defenders. He could prove to be a useful option in League One next season as the Owls look to mount a promotion push.
Sheffield Wednesday’s reliance on youth
Wednesday manager Henrik Pedersen has been effusive in his praise for the club’s youth having been forced to rely on them rather heavily at times.
Last month, he said: “We have a big group of young players and a little group of senior players who have grown amazingly through the season as humans. How we grew to be stronger in our culture, how we have developed a stronger playing style to compete in the games [is a source of pride].
Sheffield Wednesday forward Will Grainer is rated highly by Henrik Pedersen.placeholder image
Sheffield Wednesday forward Will Grainer is rated highly by Henrik Pedersen. | Steve Ellis
“In the beginning of the season, we knew when we were 1-0 down in the first half we should get to half-time so we could change something. And we normally played a good second half.
“Then came phases where we could compete for 60, 65 minutes. Then, in the last two months we have competed more or less for whole games.
“I am still very, very proud of the boys. The culture is amazing. This mentality and this belonging to Sheffield Wednesday has been outstanding. There have been so many reasons why they should not train well every day but they have been special players in this difficult period for Sheffield Wednesday.”