Looking Good: Leyton Orient makes massive progress in pursuit for ‘EPL Top Loanee’

Bradford City are keen on a loan move for Everton defender Reece Welch, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke on X.

Bradford City are interested in a swoop for the centre-back between now and the end of the transfer window. They have until the deadline on Friday to sort a deal out for him.

Welch, 20, has been on the radar of Leyton Orient recently, according to a report by Football Insider. The same source has also claimed that their fellow League One side Reading like him as well.

In this latest update regarding his situation this summer by reporter O’Rourke on X, the Bantams in League Two are the latest team to be linked with him. They won 3-1 at home to Bromley last time out and have five points on the board so far as they prepare for their upcoming fixture this weekend against Grimsby Town at Blundell Park.

Bradford City eye defender

Bradford City could see Welch as someone to add more competition and depth to their defensive department.

He would benefit from getting some regular game time under his belt at Valley Parade to boost his development.

The player has been on the books at Everton since the age of seven and has risen up through their academy ranks.

Welch has been a regular for the Toffees at various different youth levels over the past few years.

The Huddersfield-born man penned his first professional contract back in 2020 and made his debut a couple of years later in the FA Cup against Boreham Wood of non-league.

He was given the green light to head out on loan for the first time when Forest Green Rovers came calling in August last year.

The prospect went on to play 23 games in all competitions for the Gloucestershire club before he was recalled by Sean Dyche’s side in January. His ex-loan side ended up getting relegated to the National League along with Sutton United.

Welch has played for England at U16, U17, U19 and U20’s levels in the past.

Where next for Everton man?

Bradford City could try and lure him down to League Two but may face competition from the league above.

Reading and Leyton Orient have also been credited with an interest so the Bantams would need to bat away rival attention.