League One promotion hopefuls Wrexham AFC are making a late move to sign Reading striker Sam Smith before the transfer window closes, according to Football League World.
Phil Parkinson’s side have endured a frustrating January, suffering three league defeats and slipping further behind the automatic promotion spots. With time running out in the window, Wrexham are eager to add firepower to their squad to reignite their push for a top-two finish.
Wrexham Step Up Chase for Sam Smith
Sources close to Football League World suggest that Wrexham are looking to capitalise on Reading’s ongoing financial struggles by making a move for Smith, who has been one of the Royals’ standout performers this season.
The 26-year-old forward, who rejoined Reading from Cambridge United in 2023, has netted 11 goals this campaign. His contract runs until 2026, but given the club’s well-documented financial troubles under owner Dai Yongge, Reading may be forced to part ways with one of their key assets.
“FLW can exclusively reveal Wrexham are plotting a move for Smith in a bid to address their goalscoring woes and reaffirm their aspirations of achieving promotion to the Championship.”
Smith has been in prolific form over the past four seasons, reaching double figures for League One goals in each of them. His experience and consistency make him an appealing target for Wrexham as they seek to bolster their attacking options.
Wrexham in Desperate Need of a Striker
The need for a reliable goal scorer has become increasingly evident for Wrexham. The Welsh side are currently six points adrift of second-placed Wycombe Wanderers after their 3-2 home defeat to Stevenage on Tuesday.
Unlike Wycombe and league leaders Birmingham City—who can rely on proven goal scorers such as Richard Kone, Jay Stansfield, and Alfie May—Wrexham have struggled to find a talisman striker this season.
Despite having several attacking options in Steven Fletcher, Jack Marriott, Ollie Palmer, Paul Mullin, and Mo Faal, none have managed more than six league goals this campaign. Faal, who arrived in the summer, is still yet to open his League One account.
Writer’s View
Wrexham’s pursuit of Smith makes perfect sense. The club desperately needs a proven goal scorer to keep pace with their promotion rivals, and Smith fits the bill. Given Reading’s financial difficulties, a deal could be within reach if Wrexham meet their valuation. With time ticking down before the February 3rd deadline, Parkinson and his staff must act swiftly to secure the signing and strengthen their attack for the crucial months ahead.
