Reading are nearing the re-signing of striker Andy Carroll, the Reading Chronicle understands.

The 33-year-old scored twice in eight appearances for the Royals during a short spell last season before spending the second half of the campaign with Steve Bruce's West Brom.

A subject of speculation recently as Premier League Wolves looked to the Geordie as a replacement for target Diego Costa, the former Chelsea star's move is reportedly back on the cards allowing Paul Ince to swoop in and pick up the tall centre forward.

The Reading Chronicle understand that he is expected in training tomorrow and could be ready to play after the international break.

Formerly a big money signing for Liverpool, he was in the headlines earlier in the summer after reportedly ailing a medical at Belgian outfit Club Brugge.

He has been a free agent since his release from the Baggies at the end of the last season.

Joining Shane Long as a summer arrival up top, he would becomethe 12th addition to the team this season as Mark Bowen and Ince try to rebuild after an exodus at the end of last season, all under a transfer embargo.

The Royals have had a styrong start to the campaign, sitting in third and winning every Championship match at home.