Wednesday hoping to strike a deal for Vaulks

SHEFFIELD Wednesday are interested in signing free agent Will Vaulks after his release from Cardiff and a move appears advanced.

Vaulks was omitted from the Bluebirds’ retained list published earlier this month, with his contract having expired in south Wales and no appetite for an extension.

A number of clubs have expressed interest in him, including former side Rotherham United, QPR, Stoke City and Huddersfield Town, although it is understood the Terriers aren’t in the running to sign the midfielder.

Our colleagues at YorkshireLive have confirmed the Owls’ stance, with the Hillsborough outfit keen on a replacement for outgoing Massimo Luongo, who is out of contract.

It has been reported Vaulks had interest from Turkey too.

Meanwhile Cardiff City have tied down four of their most promising young players to professional contracts this week, with the club also snapping recruiting their first under-23s signing of the summer.

Jac Clay, James Crole, Caleb Hughes and Aidan MacNamara have all put pen to paper with their boyhood clubs, with 18-year-old defender Xavier Benjamin also penning a contract, having previously played in Fulham’s youth system.

New Bluebird Benjamin spoke of his delight after signing his twoyear contract. He said: “I’m truly honoured and blessed to be a part of this great club.

“I cannot wait to get involved, play and progress as a player and a person.

“I’m really looking forward to interacting with the staff, players and even the fans, as this is a new chapter for me.

“I want to get the ball moving, and I know the opportunity that is here at the club, and I want to take it with both hands when the time comes.

“On and off the pitch, I’ll be giving 100 per cent, working hard and being the best that I can be.”