Exclusive: Reading FC in advanced talks to sign Burton Albion attacker

Exclusive: Reading FC in advanced talks to sign Burton Albion attacker

With Sam Smith leaving for Wrexham AFC, the EFL has given the Royals permission to finalize this agreement, and Bodin now appears to be joining Noel Hunt’s team through the end of the season.

During Dai Yongge’s dismal tenure as owner, the Royals have seen a flurry of off-field events, including fines, point deductions, and fan demonstrations. At the moment, the team is operating under a transfer embargo.

Bodin, 32, has made 12 appearances for the Brewers this season and scored four goals, but Burton manager Gary Bowyer has given him permission to go on loan.

The versatile attacker, who can play in the middle or on either flank, can help a Royals team that is still very much in the running for a League One play-off position this year.

At the Select Car Leasing Stadium on Saturday, Noel Hunt’s team defeated Bolton Wanderers 1-0, securing a crucial victory that puts the Berkshire team in eighth place, tied with Leyton Orient for the final play-off spot.

The Royals have suffered a devastating blow since losing Sam Smith to Wrexham in the closing moments of the January transfer window.

Smith, who was a mainstay in the Royals starting lineup before moving to North Wales, scored an outstanding 11 goals for Hunt’s team this season. However, his absence has left Jayden Wareham and Kelvin Ehibhatiomhan as the team’s only striker alternatives.

The versatile Bodin is now expected to join the Royals at SCL Stadium and contribute to their pursuit of a desired League One play-off spot by giving them depth and weaponry.

The Welsh attacker played 36 games in the league last season, contributing five goals and four assists for Oxford United, which was then coached by Des Buckingham. This helped the team push for promotion from League One.

Bodin, who has over 300 English Football League outings under his belt from stints with Swindon Town, Bristol Rovers, Preston North End, and Oxford United, brings a wealth of EFL experience to the Berkshire team.

At this point, it’s unknown if Noel Hunt believes the Welshman will be immediately promoted to the starting eleven or if he will only be used to add depth to the team, which is still young.