Reading are linked with signing two defensive players ahead of the new campaign next month.

The Royals conceded the most goals in the Championship last time out, tied with Peterborough United on 87.

Earlier in the month, goalkeeper Luke Southwood was rumoured to have been allowed to leave the club and experienced defender Michael Morrison is yet to be formally offered a new contract.

According to the Sun, Middlesbrough keeper Joe Lumley is a target and could be given clearance to move to Berkshire if the Teesiders can secure Tom Heaton from Manchester United.

 

Reading Chronicle:

 

QPR Academy graduate Lumley played almost 100 times for the R's before joining Boro in 2021 and played almost 40 times last season.

Still only 27, Ince has favoured more experience over youth during his spell as interim manager, brining in 31-year-old Orjan Nyland to play ahead of 24-year-old Southwood.

The same outlet has also claimed that Jack Tucker of Gillingham is a target for the club, available on a free from the Kent side.

The 22-year-old played 44 times for the Gills as they were relegated to League Two.

 

Reading Chronicle:

 

The four-time winner of the club's Young Player of the Season award has attracted attention from a host of clubs up the pyramid, with Swansea City and Charlton Athletic amongst those compeiting for his signature.

With just nine players contracted for next season and only eight days until the beginning of pre-season, the club will have to start working quickly to give the former England midfielder a fighting chance of having a squad to work with over the pre-season camps.