Forest Green Rovers have confirmed the signing of centre-back Abraham Kanu on a season-long loan from League One outfit Reading.
The 20-year-old becomes the latest new arrival at The New Lawn, having worked his way through Reading’s academy system before signing a professional deal in July 2024. Kanu featured ten times in League One last season and also made six cup appearances, showing promise in his breakthrough campaign.
Rovers manager Robbie Savage was full of praise for the new recruit, highlighting the defender’s adaptability and athletic qualities.
“He’s a fantastic player and Mark (Bowen) knows a lot about him from his time at Reading,” Savage said. “He’s big, physical, can play a number of positions and is a player who comes with good pedigree. He’s got great pace with good technical ability and should add a lot to the team.”
Kanu’s development has been steady, progressing through Reading’s youth structure where he made 34 appearances in the U18 Premier League. His rise to senior football during the 2024/25 season marked a significant step forward, and the switch to Forest Green offers him a chance to gain regular first-team experience at senior level.
Rovers Continue Squad Rebuild Under Savage
The move for Kanu reflects Forest Green’s ongoing efforts to reshape the squad following a challenging 2024/25 campaign. With Savage now at the helm and Mark Bowen involved behind the scenes, the Nailsworth-based club have prioritised athleticism, versatility and hunger in their transfer strategy.
Kanu joins a group of summer signings that includes Isaac Moore from Coventry and Jayden Clarke, formerly of Gillingham. The club are clearly investing in youth and potential, trusting that a new structure and fresh ideas can turn their fortunes around after relegation from League Two in 2023.
For Kanu, this season represents a key stage in his development. With League One minutes already under his belt and the backing of both his parent club and Forest Green’s management, expectations will be high. He arrives as a player with the physical profile to handle senior football and the technical ability to fit into Savage’s style of play.
Writer’s View
This is a smart and measured signing for Forest Green Rovers. Abraham Kanu may not be a household name, but his experience with Reading’s first team and pedigree from their academy suggest a player with strong foundations. Bringing him in on loan avoids financial risk while giving the club access to a quick, composed defender capable of playing in multiple positions.
With Savage and Bowen shaping the recruitment strategy, there is a clear effort to build a squad that blends youth with ambition. Kanu fits that mould perfectly. If he adapts quickly to League Two and gets a consistent run of games, he could play a major role in Forest Green’s hopes of stabilising and pushing on this season.
