Reading are interested in signing Everton defender Reece Welch on a permanent basis during the summer transfer window, according to Football Insider sources.
England Welch, an Under-20 international, is nearing the final year of his Everton contract, and Reading are interested in signing him to improve their defensive options.
He made his debut for the Merseyside club’s main team in a 2-0 FA Cup fifth-round win over Boreham Wood in 2022, coming on as a substitute in the final minute.
The 21-year-old was an unused substitute in the Toffees’ 1-0 victory over Newcastle United on the final day of the Premier League season in May.
Reading set sights on Everton defender Welch
Last summer, Football Insider exclusively revealed that Reading inquired about signing Welch, and the Royals are now again interested in his talents.
Despite the serious financial issues created by former owner Dai Yongge, the Berkshire club finished eighth in League One last season, only three points out of the playoffs.
However, Reading are now seeking to make progress under new owners Rob Couhig and Todd Trosclair, who have rekindled interest in Welch.
Welch set to thrive in League One
Football Insider verdict
After narrowly missing out on the playoffs last season, Reading will be hoping to finish in the top six in Noel Hunt’s first full season in command next season.
| League One table (6th-7th) 2024/25 | Games played | Goal difference | Points |
| 6 Leyton Orient | 46 | 24 | 78 |
| 7 Reading | 46 | 11 | 75 |
Welch’s signing will help the Royals in that pursuit, since he has Premier League 2 experience from his time with the Everton youth.
Furthermore, the 21-year-old also has EFL experience, having spent the 2023/24 season on loan with Gloucestershire’s Forest Green in League Two, recording two assists in 17 fourth-tier appearances.
The Toffees starlet has demonstrated that he is prepared for the challenge of League One football, and a move to Reading should see him compete in the top tier of the third division.
Hunt’s side requires a new centre-back after losing New Zealand international Tyler Bindon to Nottingham Forest in the winter transfer window, and Welch’s signing can fill that vacuum for the Berkshire club.
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