Reading are currently locked in an ongoing battle to try and secure a play-off place in League One, but it seems as though they are set to strengthen before the transfer window comes to an end.
The Royals have continued to defy the odds and despite losing manager Ruben Selles and forward Sam Smith, they remain within touching distance of securing a top six finish this season.
Despite being heavily involved with woes off the pitch, they can still bring players in and their attentions have shifted onto a fellow League One attacker, ahead of Monday’s 11pm deadline.
According to a report via Football League World, Reading have set their sights on signing Burton Albion winger Billy Bodin on loan for the remainder of the campaign.
The Welshman has been granted special permission by the EFL to join if a deal with all parties can be reached.
How has he fared this season?
Bodin arrived at the Pirelli Stadium on a free transfer during the summer and has been a fairly regular feature for the Brewers during the 2024/25 campaign thus far.
Across all competitions, the Welshman has made 15 appearances for the Brewers, scoring four goals including a brace against Mansfield Town earlier on in the season.
However, his game time has been effected in recent outings, featuring just twice in their last ten league matches and seemingly appears to be out of favour at Burton Albion, which in turn likely explains how he could depart before the deadline.
Is this a good move for Reading?
Bodin is an experienced EFL footballer and would be able to provide a lot of benefits off the pitch for the younger players within this squad.
Similarly, despite his lack of minutes for the Brewers recently, he’s still managed four goals which is equal to, or more than all of their current squad aside from playmaker Harvey Knibbs.
He would be joining the Royals on loan too which allows the League One side to save money and potentially push for special permission to recruit in another area of the squad.
What sort of player is he?
Bodin is traditionally a winger and would provide a different option for the Royals moving forward if a deal could be agreed.
With 21-year-old forward Jayden Wareham currently leading the line following Smith’s exit, the arrival of Bodin can help him learn more in the final third and also take alot of the pressure off him.
It can also lead to increase creativity for the Royals which further strengthens their own playoff aspirations and helps their other attackers to get better service which would lead to more goals.