Wigan Athletic have secured the services of prolific striker Paul Mullin on a season-long loan from Wrexham AFC for the 2025-26 EFL League One campaign, a move confirmed on June 23, 2025. The 30-year-old forward, a cornerstone of Wrexham’s meteoric rise under Hollywood owners Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney, brings a wealth of goal-scoring pedigree to the Latics, who are aiming to improve on their 15th-place finish last season. The acquisition addresses Wigan’s need for firepower after scoring a league-low 40 goals in 2024-25.
Mullin, who joined Wrexham from Cambridge United in 2021, has an extraordinary record of 110 goals in 172 appearances across all competitions, including 38 league goals in the 2022-23 National League season and nine in the FA Cup that year, earning him the Golden Ball Award. His contributions were pivotal in Wrexham’s three consecutive promotions, culminating in their ascent to the Championship for 2025-26. However, a back surgery last summer limited Mullin’s 2024-25 season, where he scored five goals in 32 games, starting just nine league matches. The arrival of strikers Sam Smith, Jay Rodriguez, and Ryan Hardie at Wrexham saw Mullin sidelined after January, prompting this loan move.
Wigan manager Ryan Lowe, who previously targeted Mullin while at Plymouth Argyle, praised the signing, stating, “Paul’s firepower, know-how, and experience will be invaluable. He’s hungry to score and lead the line.” Mullin expressed enthusiasm for the move, saying, “I’m excited for this new chapter. I give everything for the club I play for, and I’m ready to make this season successful with Wigan.” The Latics’ sporting director, Gregor Rioch, highlighted Mullin’s professionalism as a model for younger players, noting his fit for their attacking needs.
The move reunites Mullin with the north-west, close to his hometown of Litherland, Merseyside, a factor that influenced his initial decision to join Wrexham. Despite his contract running until 2027, Mullin’s limited role last season and a reported rift with Wrexham manager Phil Parkinson fueled speculation of a departure. Parkinson supported the loan, stating, “It’s a great opportunity for Paul to play regularly. He’ll be a fantastic addition for Wigan.” Fans of both clubs have mixed emotions, with Wrexham supporters viewing Mullin as a legend but hopeful he can regain form in League One, where he previously excelled with Cambridge.
Mullin joins recent Wigan signing Christian Saydee from Portsmouth, forming a potentially potent strike partnership under Lowe’s guidance. As Wigan prepare for their season opener, Mullin’s proven scoring ability and relentless work rate position him as a key figure in their push for promotion.
