Reece Evans: Northern Ireland-Zimbabwe forward joins Bedford Town on loan from Reading U21

Bedford Town have added Northern Ireland-Zimbabwe centre-forward Reece Evans to their squad on a loan deal from Reading U21. The 20-year-old moves into National League North for the 2026-27 campaign, with the agreement running until 31 August 2026.

Evans, who stands at 1.83m and is right-footed, links up with the Eagles after a spell in Premier League 2 with Reading’s under-21 side. He previously joined the Berkshire club from Queen’s Park on a free transfer in August 2025 and spent the end of last season on loan at Torquay.

The forward has built a record as a consistent scorer at youth level, registering 11 goals in 32 U18 Premier League appearances and nine in 23 outings in Premier League 2. He has also featured in senior competitions, including the Championship, National League South, the Challenge Cup and the EFL Trophy, gaining experience across English and Scottish football.

A stint at Torquay in the National League South last season brought two goals in six league appearances, plus further minutes in the play-offs, underlining his ability to adapt quickly to men’s football. Earlier in his career he came through the ranks at Leicester City’s under-18s before a short spell without a club prior to signing for Queen’s Park in September 2024.

Evans will spend the opening weeks of the new season with Bedford Town before returning to Reading U21 at the end of his loan on 31 August 2026.