Reading FC have completed the signing of defender Udoka Godwin-Malife from Burton Albion on a three-year deal for an undisclosed fee.
The 26-year-old becomes the Royals’ second signing of the summer as manager Leam Richardson continues to reshape his squad ahead of the new League One season.
Godwin-Malife arrives after captaining Burton during the 2025/26 campaign, having made 80 appearances for the Brewers across two seasons. Comfortable at right-back, wing-back or centre-back, he is expected to add versatility and leadership to Reading’s defence.
Speaking after the deal was confirmed, Richardson said: “He’s someone we have tracked for a number of months now. It has taken a lot of work to make it happen but we could not be happier.
“A versatile defender with the leadership qualities we have been looking for, Udoka is a character, and player we are delighted to have in the camp, and we cannot wait to get started.”
Godwin-Malife began his senior career with Oxford City before joining Forest Green Rovers in 2019. He helped Forest Green win the League Two title in 2022 before spells with Swindon Town and Burton Albion, where he established himself as one of the club’s key defenders.
The defender follows forward Kyreece Lisbie through the door at the Select Car Leasing Stadium as Reading continue their recruitment ahead of the 2026/27 campaign.
