Walsall have taken a significant step in reshaping their squad for the coming League Two campaign with a reported agreement to bring Reece Smith to the Bescot Stadium.
What has happened
After an extended pursuit this summer, the club have reportedly reached a stage where the former Harrogate Town midfielder is to undergo a medical. The 24-year-old has been a primary target for new Saddlers manager Lee Grant, who has prioritised adding creativity to midfield.
Why this matters for Walsall
The acquisition would represent a tangible piece of incoming business in what has been an otherwise subdued transfer window. Walsall have already added other midfield options this summer — including Lewis Simper and Sven Sprangler — but Smith is viewed as a more creative presence capable of supplying the forwards.
- Availability: Smith is reportedly set to complete a medical ahead of a move.
- Position: Attacking midfielder/winger who operated in Harrogate’s midfield last season.
- Role: Expected to increase creativity and chance creation for Walsall’s attacking play.
Player background and recent form
Smith joined Harrogate after a long stint with Maidenhead United and featured heavily in Harrogate’s recent League Two campaign. Sources reporting on the potential transfer note he played in all but one of Harrogate’s League Two matches last season. Despite the club’s struggles and eventual relegation, Smith produced attacking returns that stood out in a difficult season.
| Detail | From reports |
|---|---|
| Age | 24 |
| Last season (reported) | 2 goals and 5 assists for Harrogate |
According to reports, he is "set to undergo a medical" ahead of joining the Bescot side.
Local context and implications
For Walsall supporters, the potential arrival of Smith speaks to the club’s immediate ambitions: to restore midfield guile and creativity as they aim to challenge in League Two. Managerial priorities this summer appear to centre on blending experienced signings — such as Sprangler — with younger, creative players who can drive forward play.
The signing would also affect squad composition and competition for places in central and wide midfield roles. It could allow the manager to rotate more effectively and offer different tactical looks, particularly against teams that sit deep and require inventive attacking play to break them down.
Confirmation of the move will be awaited by fans who have seen only modest activity so far in the transfer market. If the medical is completed and the transfer is finalised, it will be a clear signal that Walsall remain active and intent on improving the team’s creative output ahead of the new season.
Further updates will be published when the club announces the deal or if the medical does not proceed.
