A magnetoresistive read transducer includes a magnetoresistive (MR) layer having end regions spaced by a central active regions. A pair of hard-magnetic layers provide the longitudinal magnetic bias to the magnetoresistive layer. Each of the hard-magnetic layers is disposed in contact with one of the end regions of the magnetoresistive layer. In addition, a pair of electrical leads provide the bias current to the magnetoresistive layer. Each of the electrical leads is also disposed in contact with one of the end regions of the magnetoresistive layer. This arrangement enable the transducer of the present invention with the most optimal design. In essence, electrical current directly passes through the central active region of the magnetoresistive layer via the electrical leads as a low electrical resistance path. Magnetic flux of the longitudinal bias directly passes through the central active region of the magnetoresistive layer with a reduced probability of magnetic discontinuity.