Sheffield Wednesday are targeting more signings after a busy summer to date, but there is scope for departures from Hillsborough too. Some of the young players who stepped up in last season’s crisis could find opportunities away from SWFC, and among them is Charlie McNeill.
Joe Crann reports for The Wednesday Word that McNeill is set to head out on loan, with League Two side Crewe Alexandra his expected destination. A move is nearing as the Owls look to give the 22-year-old the chance to impress out on loan.
McNeill’s contract with Wednesday currently runs the end of the 2026/27 season. However, a 12-month extension option was included in the deal he penned upon arrival in the summer of 2024.
Why a summer loan move away from Sheffield Wednesday can be fruitful for Charlie McNeill
McNeill has had moments where he’s shown real promise at Sheffield Wednesday. He scored two goals in 10 minutes in a Carabao Cup clash with Hull City back in 2024 and bagged three goals in two games during the 2025/26 season.
However, consistent form has been hard to come by. McNeill’s regular role over last season and increased senior experience saw many touting him for a role in the new campaign, but with new attacking signings made and prospects coming through, he is set to head out on loan.
Ultimately, this move could prove to be McNeill’s best option. Whether Henrik Pedersen plays with two strikers or one, he has five natural options on his books, and the former Manchester United youngster is probably fifth choice.
To develop and grow, McNeill needs meaningful game time. He can get just that with a Crewe Alexandra side likely to fight for the League Two play-offs while SWFC focus on the development of other strikers.
Charlie McNeill’s Sheffield Wednesday stats
The Verdict: Sheffield Wednesday ready to attack the season with current striker options
If McNeill does exit, Pedersen will have Jamal Lowe, Mason Burstow, Harry Gray and Will Grainger up top.
It was Gray and Burstow who started in Sheffield Wednesday’s win over Bolton Wanderers. Lowe came off the bench and scored, while Grainger was also introduced as McNeill remained unused on the subsitutes bench.
Grainger’s emergence is likely what has pushed McNeill out the door. The 17-year-old is held in very high regard at SWFC and will find opportunities over the course of the campaign.
Lowe is the most senior option of the four but Burstow brings decent experience after a promotion-winning loan at Bolton Wanderers. Leeds United loanee Gray looks primed to kick on and announce himself on the senior stage following an exciting youth career and promising half-season stint with Rotherham United.
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