Sheffield Wednesday defender Sam Reed is set to leave the Championship side this summer and finds himself at the centre of a tug-of-war between three National League sides.
Reed finished the 2024/25 campaign on loan at National League North side Scarborough Athletic, but is set to become a free agent at the end of the campaign when his contract comes to an end.
However, the 22-year-old isn’t expected to be short of offers heading into the off-season break – as National League interest is already fierce between three top-half sides.
Reed to depart Sheffield Wednesday
As reported by journalist Joe Crann via the Sheffield Star, Altrincham are ‘very keen’ to sign departing Sheffield Wednesday defender Sam Reed on a free transfer.
However, Phil Parkinson’s side aren’t alone in their pursuit of the 22-year-old, with Hartlepool United and FC Halifax Town also chasing his signature.
Reed was released by Sheffield Wednesday, meaning that despite his age – the Championship side won’t receive a compensation fee for him.
This means any of those three National League clubs (or an unnamed side) can sign him for free.
How did he fare last season?
Reed was on the bench for Sheffield Wednesday during their EFL Cup defeat against Brentford in October, but was loaned out to National League side Boston United in November.
During his month stint with the club, he made four appearances and helped to keep a clean sheet.
He remained in the youth side up until mid-February when he linked up with Scarborough Athletic for the remainder of the season.
Reed made 15 appearances in the National League North, scoring twice with both goals coming during a 5-0 victory against Needham Market in March.
Which side stands the best chance?
Currently, Altrincham, Hartlepool United and FC Halifax Town are the only three sides credited with an interest in signing the 22-year-old.
Halifax have just lost left-back Ryan Galvin to Barnet, meaning they need at least one player in that area and Reed could be their leading man next season.
Hartlepool will have experienced defender David Ferguson at their disposal providing he signs a new contract. If he doesn’t, they will also be without a left-back – presenting another pathway for Reed to become a regular starter.
Altrincham appear to be leading the race and just like the other two sides, they also look like they may need a new left-back. This is due to Tylor Golden remaining in negotiations regarding a new contract and is yet to extend his stay.
All three clubs finished in the top half of the National League last season, though Halifax were the only side to finish in the play-off places.
Hartlepool currently have issues off the field whilst Halifax have lost several key players and their manager this summer so far.
Altrincham have lost top-scorer Regan Linney but remain on paper the more stable side out of the three heading towards pre-season.
Readers, where do we think he ends up?