Welcome to Yorkshire
News • August 5th, 2026
|Bradford City AFC has made an exciting addition to their squad by signing 22-year-old defender Reece Welch on a two-year deal. The announcement was made recently, and it's clear that both the club and Welch have high hopes for this new chapter at Mbanq Valley Parade.
Welch's Journey to Bradford
Reece Welch has had quite the journey to get to this point. Standing at an impressive 6 feet 6 inches tall, he started his football career at the renowned Everton academy. He signed his first professional contract with Everton in 2020 when he was just 16 years old. This early start in a top club's academy gave him a solid foundation in football, allowing him to develop his skills in a competitive environment. Before joining Bradford City, Welch gained valuable first-team experience through loan spells at Forest Green Rovers and Deinze in Belgium. These opportunities not only helped him grow as a player but also allowed him to showcase his talent on different stages. He has even represented England at various youth levels, further highlighting his potential as a promising defender.
Impressive Trial Period
Welch's signing comes after an impressive trial period with the Bantams, during which he participated in several pre-season matches. He faced teams like Halifax Town, Accrington Stanley, SV Gmunden, Preston North End, and Salford City, where he showcased his skills and caught the attention of the coaching staff.
After putting in the hard work during the trial, Welch expressed his excitement about joining Bradford City.
“I am really excited to be here. You know the size of the club; it is massive.”
“I have been in for a few weeks on trial now and can already feel the good energy around the club.”
Support and Sponsorship
As part of his journey with Bradford City, Reece Welch will be sponsored by School of Rock and Media LTD. This partnership not only highlights the support the club provides to their players but also shows the community's involvement in local sports. Welch will wear the number 2 shirt during his time with the team, a number that often signifies a strong defensive presence on the pitch.
Manager's Confidence
City boss Graham Alexander has high hopes for Welch:
“Reece has all the attributes we like in our defenders. He has athleticism, excellent ability on the ball, and a will to defend.”
Alexander believes that with the right guidance and development, Welch has the potential to become a top player in the league. The manager's confidence in Welch is crucial, as it sets the stage for his future at the club. The coaching staff is committed to working closely with him to help him reach his full potential, which is encouraging news for fans eager to see how he will contribute to the team.
