Reading have confirmed the signing of 18-year-old Nigerian forward Miles Obodo.
The young striker joins the League One club after turning down interest from Premier League side Brighton.
Obodo has signed a one-year deal with Reading and will begin his journey with their Under 21 squad under coach Peter Scott.
The move marks his first professional contract after leaving Swindon Town, where he was previously on a scholarship.
Brighton Miss Out Despite Trial Chance
Brighton seemed close to signing Obodo earlier this year. He trained with their youth side in May and even played in a trial match in the Under 18 Premier League against Crystal Palace.
Obodo came off the bench and made an immediate impact, assisting a goal in the 3–3 draw.
Despite that strong showing, Reading acted quickly to secure his signature and bring him to the Select Car Leasing Stadium.
Their swift move shut the door on Brighton’s hopes of adding the young talent to their academy.
A Rising Star with Early League Experience
Obodo made his debut in the English Football League at just 16 years old for Swindon Town. During his time there, he played eight matches for the first team, including four in League Two during the 2023–24 season.
In the second half of that season, he went on a short loan spell with Marlow, a team in the Southern League Division One Central, gaining valuable playing time and experience.
He also featured for Swindon’s youth side that made a strong run in the FA Youth Cup, reaching the quarterfinals.
What’s Next for Obodo?
Now at Reading, Obodo has the chance to grow and prove himself in a more structured environment.
Starting with the Under 21s gives him time to develop further, and his experience already gained at a young age could help him make the step up quickly.
With Premier League clubs already taking notice, all eyes will be on how the young striker performs in the coming season.
