Reading finalise transfer swoop for 25-y/o free agent

Reading have completed the signing of Brandon Barker on a free transfer for the remainder of the season.

Brandon is a Royal! ✍

We’re pleased to announce the signing of former @RangersFC winger Brandon Barker, on a deal that will run for the remainder of the 2021-22 campaign.#Royals150 | #WelcomeBrandon

— Reading FC (@ReadingFC) February 15, 2022

The 25-year-old winger, who can play down either flank, has been a free agent since leaving Rangers at the end of January.

As he has no club, the Royals have been able to move to bring Barker in, with his arrival confirmed on their official site this afternoon.

They revealed that the wide man had been training with Veljko Paunovic’s men in recent weeks, with his performances catching the eye of the under-pressure coach, who explained why he was pleased to add Barker to his ranks.

“During his time training with us at Bearwood Park, he has shown us his ability, his hunger and the positive attitude he can bring to this squad for the final three months of the season and I am looking forward to integrating him quickly into our squad.”

The former Manchester City youngster, who most recently played with Oxford in England, will be available for tomorrow night’s massive game against Peterborough United for his new club.

The verdict

This seems like a low-risk move for Reading as they’ve picked up Barker on a free and he should be able to add something to the team, maybe even immediately as Junior Hoilett is suspended.

In terms of his qualities, he is a direct player and has blistering pace, which is something this Royals side lack, even if he can be frustrating at times.

Given their position and recent form, Reading need all the help they can get and Barker could make a difference