Sheffield Wednesday’s summer transfer hopes for Reece Welch have been dealt a blow after the 22-year-old was spotted training with Bradford City. The Owls, currently 24th in the Championship with 0 points from 46 games and 95 points behind leaders Coventry, had been linked with the former Everton defender just weeks ago. But a pre-season training photo posted by Bradford City’s Antoni Sarcevic has revealed Welch is now part of the Bantams’ squad.

Who is Reece Welch and why does he matter to Sheffield Wednesday?

Welch, a 22-year-old former Everton academy graduate, left the Toffees this summer after 16 years on Merseyside. Though he made just four senior appearances, he spent time on loan at Forest Green Rovers and Belgian outfit Deinze. Sheffield Wednesday, under new owner David Storch, had been credited with interest in the defender as part of their rebuild, alongside signings like Ricardo Santos, Louie Barry, and Barry Bannan.

How did Bradford City step in?

Bradford City’s interest in Welch was confirmed when star player Antoni Sarcevic posted a training photo to Instagram. The image showed Welch on the far right, surrounded by Bantams players. The Yorkshire side had already fielded four trialists in their 6-1 pre-season win over FC Halifax Town, though it’s unclear if Welch was among them. Bradford fans reacted positively, seeing him as a solid backup to injured Matt Pennington on a budget.

What does this mean for Sheffield Wednesday’s transfer window?

Wednesday’s window remains open, but the timing of this move could force the Owls to reconsider their options. With their next fixture against Peterborough on September 5, the focus now shifts to whether they can land another defender to shore up a defense that’s conceded 89 goals this season. The club’s recent signings suggest ambition, but Welch’s departure to Bradford adds a twist to their summer plans.