Wrexham have laid down a serious marker of intent ahead of the Championship season.
The Welsh club, competing in the Championship for the first time in 43 years, have signed Plymouth Argyle forward Ryan Hardie.
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Hardie has signed a contract until the end of the 2027/28 season and becomes Wrexham’s first signing of the summer.
“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,” Hardie said.
“To get a full pre-season will be a massive benefit, to get integrated into the squad and learn the way the manager plays and get to know everyone will be important.
“The last couple of seasons, it’s been good getting experience in the Championship and it’s experience I can lean on now. I’ve enjoyed playing there, and I’ve managed to score a few goals, so hopefully that can continue this season.
“I love how family-oriented the club is, the community is all together and it really is a one-club city.
“Everything is to do with the football, and I’m really excited to be a part of that – I’ll give everything I’ve got for the badge.”
The 28-year-old joins after a season in which he scored 12 goals in 40 appearances across all competitions for the Pilgrims.
One of those came from the penalty spot in Argyle’s stunning 1-0 upset of Liverpool in the fourth round of the FA Cup.
It was a monumental result as it killed off Liverpool’s hopes of winning the quadruple.
Hardie ended the 2024/25 Championship campaign in strong form as he netted nine times in his final 14 games.
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The Scot will join an attacking unit that features the likes of former Burnley marksman Jay Rodriguez and Sam Smith, who became the club’s record signing in January when he arrived for £2million.
Hardie will also compete with fellow forwards Paul Mullin and Ollie Palmer for a spot in the starting line-up, with the latter pair jumping on board when the Welsh side was in the National League.
“I’m delighted to welcome Ryan Hardie to the club,” Wrexham boss Phil Parkinson said.
“We’re looking forward to working with him and I’m sure everyone will give him a warm welcome to the SToK Cae Ras.”
Hardie has 77 Championship appearances to his name and has scored 22 times.
He has also reached double figures in his last four seasons for Argyle across League One and the Championship.
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The 28-year-old began his career at Scottish giants Rangers as he made his way through the academy before he earned his senior debut in September 2014.
He went on to make only 17 appearances for his boyhood club as he was sent on loan to Raith Rovers, St Mirren and Livingston.
Hardie joined League One side Blackpool in July 2019 but lasted just six months with the Tangerines as Argyle came calling in January 2020 on a six-month loan.
The Scot would spend another season on loan at Home Park before his move was made permanent in January 2020.