Reading FC have announced the free agent signing of Brandon Barker with the left winger joining on a short-term deal until the end of the season.

Royals boss Veljko Paunovic spoke recently about his desire to bring in one or two free agents following the conclusion to the January transfer window and while it was thought that defensive reinforcements were the priority, the club have confirmed the deal for the attacker.

Barker started his career in the Manchester City academy but he went on to make just one appearance for the first team while heading out on loans to Rotherham, NAC Breda, Hibernian, and Preston.

In 2019 the 25-year old joined Rangers, going on to play 16 times for the Scottish side in the three seasons since. Barker spent the 2020/21 campaign in League One with Oxford United but has been without a club since the end of January when he departed Rangers by mutual consent.

After impressing on trial, Barker will wear number 33 for Reading and manager Paunovic expressed his joy at completing the deal.

“I am very pleased to welcome Brandon to Reading on a three-month contract that is the right opportunity for both the player and the club," the Serbian said. "During his time training with us at Bearwood Park, he has shown us his ability, his hunger and the positive attitude he can bring to this squad for the final three months of the season and I am looking forward to integrating him quickly into our squad."

Meanwhile Chief Executive Dayong Pang echoed Paunovic's sentiments saying: “Brandon is a player we have been keeping a close watch on for a number of weeks now and we are very pleased he has agreed to join the club. He will add additional competition for first team places and will hopefully play a key part in the all-important final third of our season.”