Reading look set to win the race for highly-rated Manchester United midfielder Charlie Savage, according to Manchester Evening News.
The 20-year-old gained his first taste of regular first team football last season when he joined then-League One side Forest Green Rovers on a six-month loan deal.
Despite earning plaudits for his performances, he was unable to prevent Rovers’ relegation to League Two. However, he caught the attention of a host of EFL clubs and the likes of Swansea City, Sheffield Wednesday and Wigan Athletic have all been linked.
Savage rose through the ranks at Manchester United and made his debut for the 20-time English champions in the Champions League Group Stage draw against Young Boys in 2021. It remained his solitary senior performance for the first team, although he did feature in the Red Devils’ pre-season win over Leeds United last week.
Another loan move had been touted this season, but United boss Erik ten Hag has seemingly sanctioned a permanent move for the Welsh under-21 international.
What Has Been Said?
The Royals’ interest in Savage was reported earlier today when journalist Darren Witcoop claimed that he was one of three players being targeted by the Berkshire-based club.
It looks as if manager Ruben Selles has acted swiftly, with Samuel Luckhurst of the Manchester Evening News stating that he will now complete a move to the League One side.
Since the appointment of Erik ten Hag, Manchester United have been proactive in offloading academy players which they feel will not be able to break into the first team setup. However, they have also been clever when it comes to negotiating terms with buying clubs.
It is reported that Savage’s transfer to the Select Car Leasing Stadium includes a hefty sell-on clause, plus the opportunity to match any bid received for the midfielder in the future.
Writer’s View
Charlie Savage is a player that I have seen a lot of over the years and is one that should shine in League One.
Reading will feel that they have pulled off a major coup, particularly with the youngster having had interest from the Championship.
Although he suffered the heartbreak of relegation last season with Forest Green, Savage’s time at The New Lawn Stadium was a positive one and will stand him in good stead. This could prove to be one of the best signings of the summer as Reading target an immediate return to the second tier.
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