Reading FC are understood to be among a number of English clubs monitoring striker Ronan Hale during the January transfer window.
The 27‑year‑old forward plays for Scottish Championship side Ross County, having joined the Highland club on a three‑year deal in July 2024 after a prolific spell in the Northern Irish Premiership with Cliftonville. Hale scored 18 goals in his first season at Dingwall, despite County’s relegation from the Scottish Premiership at the end of the 2024/25 campaign.
Reading’s interest in the Belfast‑born forward comes as the club seeks to bolster its attacking options. Reading manager Leam Richardson is keen to improve the depth of his squad this month, but several clubs in the EFL remain interested in signing Hale.
Hale has also been involved on the international stage. Originally capped by the Republic of Ireland at under‑age levels, he completed a switch to represent Northern Ireland and made his senior debut in June 2025 in a friendly win over Iceland. He has since been called up for World Cup qualifiers and remains in contention for further selection.
Ross County are thought to value the striker highly, with a potential seven‑figure fee reportedly required for his services, and clubs including Wigan Athletic, Salford City and Stevenage also linked with moves.
It remains unclear whether Reading will make a formal bid before the January deadline, but interest is understood to be ongoing. A move to the English Football League could offer Hale the chance to test himself at a higher level and boost his hopes of regular international selection.
