For many months, Polish striker Mariusz Stępiński, 31, was linked with a return to Widzew Łódź. The prospect reportedly became more likely after Robert Dobrzycki's arrival at the club, and at one point seemed very close to completion. However, negotiations were complicated due to the striker's contract situation and difficulties involving Omonia Nicosia. The then-president of Widzew, Michał Rydz, later explained that Mindaugas Nikoličius had been closely monitoring the transfer. Rydz stated that it was understood Stępiński could only be acquired near the end of the transfer window, and the director decided against waiting, though the eventual new signings also arrived late. According to Rydz, Stępiński had indicated he was ready to move, but a series of events prevented the transfer. Speaking on the program „Sport po łódzku”, Łukasz Masłowski noted that while Stępiński is sentimentally connected to Widzew, a move is currently difficult as he has a new, long contract with Korona Kielce. He has 4 caps for Poland. His current Transfermarkt market value is €500k.