Making an immediate return to the Championship by way of a second-placed finish, a new-look Cardiff City will be looking to establish themselves in the second tier next season.
With recruitment now underway, they are ahead of several rivals in the race for Reading’s Charlie Savage, according to reports from the Reading Chronicle.
The Royals have undergone a rollercoaster since their drop into League One, with various ownership and financial uncertainties plaguing the Berkshire side. But over those years, their most impressive performer has been 23-year-old Savage, who looks set for Championship football next season, one way or another.
Cardiff City Lead Race for Charlie Savage
Joining the Royals from Manchester United in July 2023, the young star has grown into his own at the Madjeski. Making over 140 appearances for the club, he is an established mainstay in the starting eleven.
Left-footed with great technical ability and an admirable work-rate, he is an effective recycler of possession and capable of creating play and chipping in with the occasional goal. He is vital to the way Reading play, and was one of the few bright sparks in the club’s most dismal period.
Leam Richardson’s Reading fell short of the play-offs, largely thanks to a dismal run at the sharp end of the season, and the star midfielder will now be entering the final year of his contract.
So, it will take a fee for Cardiff City to secure the former-Manchester United man’s services, but they will likely need to act fast while interest is high.
Would Savage Be An Effective Signing for Cardiff
Under Brian Barry-Murphy, the Bluebirds have been regarded as one of the best footballing teams in England.
With a relatively youthful core, their midfield has been spearheaded by brothers Rubin and Joel Colwill, who both rose through the ranks in South Wales. Meanwhile, Dylan Lawlor and Will Fish are exceptional playing out from the back, with talents from Yousef Salech and Ollie Tanner proving decisive throughout the season.
At their best, Cardiff were capable of blowing most sides in the division and proved worthy of promotion. However, at times, fans were critical of the naivety Cardiff showed in their play, often conceding soft goals and failing to be clinical enough in some matches.
They pose one of the most exciting squads in England, but additions will be necessary if they are to take their progressive style of play into the Championship. That’s where Savage could be a worthy fit. As discussed, he is a stylistic fit for Brian Barry-Murphy, and still has potential to meet.
Cardiff City could be the right club for Savage to develop further, under one of England’s most progressive young coaches in a free-scoring, possession-based side. However, they will need to capitalise while ahead in the race, with the midfielder being highly sought-after.
