Sheffield Wednesday can't repeat last season's transfer trick as Darren Moore must alter policy

There are plenty of areas in the Sheffield Wednesday squad that must be strengthened ahead of the 2022/23 season. The most pressing need is in central defence.

If the Owls are to persist in playing with a back three next year, manager Darren Moore and the recruitment team must bring in two to three defensive reinforcements. Moore's options are depleted at centre-half, with Sam Hutchinson and Chey Dunkley on the way out and Lewis Gibson, Jordan Storey and Harlee Dean having returned to their parent clubs following loan stints at the League One club.

Dominic Iorfa is Wednesday's only recognised centre-back but has struggled badly in each of the past two seasons with injury. Although Liam Palmer is capable of playing there and doing a solid job, it is not his natural position. Palmer has played at full-back the majority of his Wednesday career.

A busy summer transfer window will only get busier should Joe Wildsmith, Jack Hunt, Massimo Luongo and Nathaniel Mendez-Laing opt to move on to pastures new. The quartet are mulling over their options, having been offered fresh terms.

Moore could have some funds to play with in the market. No longer are the club operating under transfer restrictions. Yet the focus will be on free agents and loan deals. Most of the signings must be hits rather than misses if the Owls are to push for automatic promotion.

It is no surprise that Wednesday will continue to explore opportunities in the loan market. Moore is well-connected and has a good standing in the game. His background in youth football has helped the Owls develop links with clubs higher up in the food chain.

But were Wednesday overly reliant on temporary transfers last year? EFL rules stipulate only five loan players can be included