Sheffield Wednesday swoop to sign ex-Motherwell and Sheffield United defender Ben Heneghan

Sheffield Wednesday have unveiled Ben Heneghan as their first signing of the summer transfer window. The centre-back arrives on a free transfer following his AFC Wimbledon release. The length of Heneghan's contract has not been disclosed.

Although Heneghan's Dons contract does not officially run out until the end of June, it is believed an agreement has been reached whereby the experienced defender will be able to take part in the Owls' pre-season programme. Wednesday's first team squad are due back in for pre-season training next week.

Heneghan was a first-team regular for the Dons last term, making 47 starts across all competitions. He only missed five League One matches as Wimbledon finished second-from-bottom and lost their survival fight. Despite the Dons' struggles, Heneghan was one of their better performers.

Manchester-born Heneghan, who kicked off his career in Everton's academy before moving to Stoke City, is capable of playing in a flat back four or a three-man defence. The 6ft 4ins defender has played much of his career in the third tier of English football.

The 28-year-old has racked up over 300 club appearances in his pro career. His previous clubs include Chester, Motherwell, Blackpool and Sheffield United. He only played once for the Blades in a forgettable three-year spell at Bramall Lane and was twice loaned out to the Seasiders.

Heneghan adds some much-needed cover and competition in defence. Wednesday remain low on numbers in central defence after their vast loan cohort returned to their parent clubs following the end of the 2021/22 season. Not only did Harlee Dean, Jordan Storey and Lewis Gibson leave, but boss Darren Moore also opted to release Sam Hutchinson and Chey Dunkley following their