Lecce See Deadline Day Bid for English Prospect Rejected

Lecce’s late attempt to sign Reading midfielder Tyler Sackey was rebuffed on Deadline Day, with the Serie A club forced to turn their attention elsewhere.

The Giallorossi had hoped to secure the 18-year-old on loan as they look to add youthful energy to their midfield options.

Lecce’s Interest Knocked Back

Sackey has quickly emerged as one of the most highly-rated young players in England’s League One, attracting scouts from across Europe. Lecce made their move on the final day of the transfer window, enquiring about a temporary deal, but Reading rejected the approach. The Royals remain determined to keep the teenager involved in their first-team plans under head coach Noel Hunt.

The Apulian side were disappointed by the decision, but their interest underlined the club’s ongoing strategy of recruiting emerging talent from outside Italy. Under manager Eusebio Di Francesco, Lecce are determined to strengthen their squad following a challenging start to the 2025–26 Serie A campaign.

Giallorossi Looking for Answers

Lecce sit 17th in the table after two matches, drawing once and losing once, with no goals scored so far. After narrowly avoiding relegation last season, the Salentini are keen to avoid another battle at the bottom of the division. Sackey, who impressed with his dynamism and creativity in Reading’s cup outings, was seen as a player who could inject freshness into midfield.

The youngster already has goals in the EFL Trophy to his name and registered an assist in Reading’s recent 3-2 defeat to Swindon Town. His direct running and composure on the ball fit the mould of players Lecce have targeted in recent windows, aiming to blend Serie A experience with youthful flair.

Sackey’s current contract at Reading runs until next summer, a situation which has also attracted interest from other Serie A clubs as well as Premier League sides. For Lecce, the rejected bid may only be the first step in a longer pursuit.

Writer’s View

For Lecce, the frustration of missing out on Sackey highlights both the ambition and the challenges of their transfer approach. Di Francesco’s side need reinforcements to climb away from the danger zone, and a player of Sackey’s profile would have offered exactly the kind of spark that could energise their season.

With his contract ticking down in England, Lecce are likely to keep monitoring the situation ahead of January. If the Royals cannot agree an extension, the Giallorossi may yet have another chance to bring him to the Via del Mare.