Reading FC are reportedly expected to enter the competition to sign Rotherham United striker Sam Nombe during the upcoming summer transfer window. The forward previously worked under manager Leam Richardson, which could influence interest in his services.
The 27-year-old has been one of the few consistent performers in what has otherwise been a difficult season for Rotherham. He has scored 12 goals and contributed 2 assists, standing out as a reliable attacking option despite his team’s struggles. Looking more broadly at his League One record, Nombe has accumulated 43 goals and 18 assists in 153 appearances. These figures are particularly notable given that many of his seasons have been spent in sides fighting near the bottom of the table rather than competing for promotion.
Rotherham’s relegation has increased speculation that their leading scorer could be sold, with several clubs now monitoring his situation. His playing style—built on strength, high work rate, and an ability to contribute goals and assists—makes him an attractive target for ambitious teams looking to strengthen their attacking options. Alongside Reading, clubs such as Wycombe Wanderers and Bolton Wanderers are also expected to compete for his signature.
Although Nombe still has one year remaining on his current contract at Rotherham, the club are expected to demand a transfer fee for any potential move.
He has prior experience working under Leam Richardson during the 2024 Championship season, when Richardson was Rotherham manager. During that spell, Nombe featured regularly and recorded three assists. He is also familiar with midfielder Andy Rinomhota, having played alongside him in the same season that ended in Rotherham’s relegation from the Championship.
Nombe originally joined Rotherham United from Exeter City in 2023 on a four-year contract for a club-record fee. At the time, then-manager Matt Taylor—who had previously coached him at Exeter—praised him as a forward combining “pace and power,” highlighting the physical and dynamic qualities that define his playing style.
