Brackley Town re-sign League One starlet on loan - he was Andy Whing’s number one target

Rhone, who spent the final month of last campaign with the Saints, is thrilled to return to St James Park for the entirety of the upcoming 2026/27 season. This newspaper understands head coach Whing worked tirelessly alongside recruitment staff Joe Taylor and Gareth Dean to get the deal over the line, with Rhone their number one target for the goalkeeper position. Reading initially preferred Rhone to continue playing in Step 1 - the National League - again but they were convinced Brackley was the right destination at this stage. Just 20 years of age, Rhone is only at the beginning of his career but he has already made a great impression at his parent club, and he impressed a great deal in his seven Brackley appearances last term. Rhone is very vocal for a player of his age, with leadership qualities already shining through. As well as being a good shot-stopper, the Reading prospect is also strong in possession and comfortable with both feet. “The ambitions for this season are really promising, and it's something I want to be part of,” Rhone said after putting pen to paper. “There are a lot of new players coming in and I can't wait to meet them, but the staff, the fans and everyone around the club made it an easy decision to come back “As a goalkeeper, I like to play with the ball, communicate and lead from the back. I want to be that fifth defender, helping the team build attacks and ultimately win games.” Rhone becomes Brackley’s ninth new signing of the summer, taking the squad size to 11. It’s understood the Saints will complete another new addition in the next 48 hours.