Done Deal: Wrexham AFC Secure Simon Adingra on a Four‑Year Deal
Wrexham, 23 June 2025 – Wrexham AFC today confirmed the capture of Ivorian winger Simon Adingra on a four‑year contract, following the expiration of his deal at Brighton & Hove Albion. The 23‑year‑old free agent officially joins the Red Dragons, marking a transformative moment for the club as they prepare for life in the Championship after consecutive promotions.
From Africa to Europe, now to Wrexham
Born 1 January 2002 in Yamoussoukro, Ivory Coast, Adingra began his footballing education at Ghana’s prestigious Right to Dream Academy . In January 2020, he embarked on his European venture by signing with Danish Superliga side FC Nordsjælland. Just months later, he announced himself by scoring on his debut in April 2021 against Copenhagen. Over two seasons in Denmark, Adingra notched 11 league goals across 38 appearances, underscoring his rapid development.
Brighton signed him in June 2022 for a reported £6 million on a four-year deal . Rather than immediately slotting him into the Premier League, the Seagulls loaned him to Belgian outfit Union Saint‑Gilloise (USG) for the 2022–23 season. There, Adingra shone, tallying 11 goals and nine assists in 30 league outings, and helped USG qualify for Europe.
Brighton breakthrough and Premier League emergence
Adingra’s performances in pre-season 2023—including a two‑goal display against Brentford in the Premier League Summer Series—garnered plaudits . Integrated into Roberto De Zerbi’s first-team setup, he ended the 2023–24 season with six Premier League goals from 25 appearances and added another in Europe. However, competition from wingers like Kaoru Mitoma and Muhammad Beyzahl Minteh limited his minutes.
Brighton fans remained enthused, often praising his finishing, one‑on‑one skill, and composure . “Adingra could be such a massive super‑sub… he would cook any defender on tired legs,” commented one Redditor . Yet, with Mitoma virtually ever‑present and other elite options ahead of him, Adingra found opportunities scarce .
A homecoming to the Racecourse: Wrexham’s Championship ambition
Now a free agent, Adingra joins Wrexham on a four‑year deal. The club’s promotion to the Championship – clinched with a 3‑0 win over Charlton Athletic on 26 April 2025 – has paved the way for headline acquisitions . Adingra arrives with a point to prove, bringing flair and attacking depth to Wrexham’s squad as they aim to establish themselves in English football’s second tier.
Management expressed excitement at the signing. “Simon’s blend of pace, dribbling and attacking versatility fits our vision perfectly,” said the Wrexham sporting director. “He’s proven himself in top‑level leagues and on the European stage—now we believe he can thrive at the Racecourse.”
What Adingra brings: skill, style, and versatility
Adingra’s strengths are many: electrifying dribbling, technical flair, a direct goal threat, and adaptability across the front line. Brighton’s David Weir once described him as “a talented young player who we’ve had an eye on for a while,” while Adingra himself cited Wrexham’s project and his eagerness for regular first‑team football .
At Union, his balanced productivity—14 goals, 14 assists in all competitions—earned interest from Bundesliga and Ligue 1 clubs . Yet Brighton emphasised a long-term role for him and retained him in their plans . Now, seeking consistent minutes in a competitive Championship, Adingra hopes to fulfil that promise at Wrexham.
Red Dragons and reunions
Adingra will reunite with former Brighton academy midfielder Jordan Davies, who starred for Wrexham before departing this month after a loan spell. Their partnership could become pivotal as Wrexham pursue stability and growth among tougher opposition.
Fan reaction: optimism and intrigue abound
Wrexham supporters have greeted the news with enthusiasm. The club’s social media channels lit up with reactions: “Welcome to Wrexham, Simon!” read one post. Many fans consider the move a statement of intent: a sign Wrexham is not just content with Championship survival, but has real ambitions.
Looking ahead
Simon Adingra is expected to complete his medical and be unveiled later this week ahead of Wrexham’s pre-season training. Manager Phil Parkinson and his squad will be watching closely: can this 23‑year‑old winger become the catalyst who establishes Wrexham in the Championship—and perhaps sparks further growth beyond?
