theglobalsun – Reading have completed the loan signing of striker Will Keane from Preston North End for the remainder of the season. The 33-year-old forward joins the club as they strengthen their attacking options during the final months of the campaign. The move also reunites Keane with head coach Leam Richardson, who previously worked with him at Wigan Athletic.
Keane enjoyed one of the most successful periods of his career while playing under Richardson at Wigan. During the 2021–22 campaign, he finished as the top goalscorer in League One. His goals helped the Latics secure the league title and earn promotion to the Championship.
Throughout his spell at Wigan, Keane made 133 appearances and scored 50 goals. His consistent performances made him one of the club’s most reliable attacking players during that time. The striker’s experience and scoring record were key factors behind Reading’s decision to bring him in on loan.
Keane joined Preston North End after leaving Wigan, but his involvement this season has been limited due to injury. The forward suffered a calf injury in April, which affected his availability during the current campaign. As a result, he has made only two appearances for the club this season.
Despite limited playing time, Keane managed to score one goal during those appearances. The loan move now provides him with an opportunity to regain match fitness and return to regular competitive action.
Over the course of his career, Keane has represented several clubs across English football. In addition to Preston and Wigan, he has previously played for Ipswich Town, Hull City, Sheffield Wednesday, and Queens Park Rangers. These experiences have given him extensive knowledge of the English league system.
Reunion With Leam Richardson Aims to Strengthen Reading’s Attack
Reading manager Leam Richardson expressed his satisfaction after completing the loan deal. The coach emphasized both Keane’s qualities as a player and his character within the squad. Their previous working relationship was also an important factor in bringing the striker to the club.
“I’m delighted to get the acquisition of Will over the line, he’s a fantastic person,” Richardson said after the deal was confirmed. The manager explained that his familiarity with Keane made the transfer particularly appealing.
“As a player and as a person I know him well. I know what he brings to the group,” Richardson added. Such familiarity can help a new signing adapt quickly to the team environment.
Richardson also highlighted Keane’s strong record of scoring goals in the division. The striker’s experience at League One level is expected to provide an additional attacking option for Reading as the season continues.
“Will has a proven record of scoring goals in this division and the one above, and will add plenty of quality to our frontline for the remainder of the season,” the manager said.
Loan signings at this stage of the season often aim to strengthen specific areas of a squad. For Reading, the arrival of an experienced striker could provide an important boost in upcoming matches.
For Keane, the move offers an opportunity to return to regular football following injury setbacks. Playing consistently during the remainder of the season could help him rebuild form and confidence. His experience and goal-scoring ability may also provide valuable leadership within the squad.
