Reading FC close in on West Ham transfer breakthrough | OneFootball

Reading FC close in on West Ham transfer breakthrough | OneFootball

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·19 August 2026

Reading FC close in on West Ham transfer breakthrough

Article image:Reading FC close in on West Ham transfer breakthrough

Reading are set to complete the signing of George Earthy from West Ham United.

Reading are expected to complete the signing of George Earthy from West Ham, with the midfielder undergoing a medical today.


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The 21-year-old came through the ranks with the Hammers, and he has made a few Premier League appearances for the club.

However, even with Nuno Espírito Santo working with a depleted midfield during pre-season, Earthy found opportunities hard to come by, and he was an unused substitute in the EFL Cup win over Portsmouth, as well as the opening day draw at Burnley in the Championship.

Article image:Reading FC close in on West Ham transfer breakthrough

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George Earthy poised to join Reading from West Ham

Therefore, a move was always on the cards for Earthy, and he is now seemingly set to link up with the Royals.

That’s after ex-WHUEmployee, as shared by the West Ham Way, confirmed that the Irons have ‘agreed a deal’ to sign Earthy.

So, the youngster is now travelling to Berkshire to finalise the move, and that could be concluded swiftly, as Earthy is expected to have his medical today.

This would appear to end Earthy’s association with West Ham that stretches back to when he joined the academy as a kid, although he has had loan spells at Bristol City in recent years.

George Earthy could benefit from fresh start away from West Ham

In truth, this seems like a good move for all parties, as Earthy is at a stage in his career where he needs to be playing week in, week out.

As a West Ham lad, he has achieved his dream of playing for the club, and whilst it’s a shame for him that his time at the club is over, this is his chance to go out and make a name for himself.

He has shown flashes of his quality at Bristol City, but it was always going to be very difficult for him to get near the West Ham XI this season, and it’s clear that Nuno feels he has better options - and you still expect them to strengthen before the deadline.

Article image:Reading FC close in on West Ham transfer breakthrough

George Earthy transfer is a coup for Reading

Following on from that, you have to say that this looks an outstanding bit of business for Reading.

Obviously, the details on the fee haven’t been shared yet, but it’s unlikely to be a huge sum, so it could turn out to be a bargain for the Royals.

Leam Richardson has some talented players in his squad, but if Reading are to sustain a push for the play-offs this season, which should be the aim, they need reinforcements, and Earthy is a very good start on that front.

He is capable of playing different midfield roles, and he will bring an energy and quality that Reading are sometimes lacking, and it’s worth noting that he has made almost 50 appearances in the Championship over the past two years, so he has good pedigree.

Plus, at 21, he fits the profile that Reading should be targeting in terms of his age and potential, as Earthy is a player that could fetch the club a big profit down the line if he does develop in the way many think he could.

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