New Zealand Left-Back Liberato Cacace Joins Wrexham in Record Transfer

Wrexham AFC have signed New Zealand international left-back Liberato Cacace from Italian club Empoli for an undisclosed fee, reportedly breaking their transfer record with a deal potentially worth up to £4 million. The 24-year-old, who has made 76 Serie A appearances and was recently named the most valuable player at the 2024 OFC Men's Nations Cup as New Zealand captain, has signed a three-year contract until the end of the 2027/28 season. Cacace previously played for Wellington Phoenix and Belgian side Sint-Truidense V.V. before moving to Italy, and he joins Wrexham as they prepare for their first Championship campaign in 43 years. Manager Phil Parkinson expressed enthusiasm about Cacace's character and fit within the club’s culture, highlighting the player’s versatility and hunger to improve. Wrexham are currently on a pre-season tour in New Zealand where they will face Cacace's former club Wellington Phoenix in a friendly. This signing follows the club’s recent additions of goalkeeper Danny Ward and forward Ryan Hardie as part of their squad strengthening for the higher level of competition.