With less than a month until the transfer window begins, it is understood that Reading FC have already identified players as targets and are working to get as much money available to spend as possible.  

FFP has come at the wrong time for Royals fans, as finally the club has an owner who wants to spend lots of money on players; they are unable to do so. 

Unfortunately these restrictions on spending look likely to continue, which would mean that Reading can only bring in players on loan or for small amounts of money. 

However, as with anything in modern football, the restrictions on Reading’s transfer activity could still go away. 

Firstly, the EFL have had a long standing inside debate on whether they should scrap FFP for some time, due to the unfortunate circumstances of the times. 

It is understood that this debate is still going on and a change in FFP could completely release Reading from their shackles. 

Another way that Reading could get free of the EFL’s restrictions would be to sell hot prospects Omar Richards, who’s contract is up at the end of the season, and Micheal Olise, contracted until mid 2022.

While negotiations with Richards are on-going (believed to be discussing a 4 year deal, with a major wage hike upon promotion).

If they are not close to an agreement by late on in January, it is understood that the club will look to sell him. 

As previously reported by The Reading Chronicle, Crystal Palace and West Ham are two clubs on a growing list vying for the young left-back’s signature.

If Reading could sell him in January rather than allow his contract to run out, they would be able to re-invest into the squad. 

Micheal Olise’s name is growing rapidly throughout world football and is understood to have many admirers, including European giants such as Real Madrid, Barcelona and Dortmund – all on top of the previously reported English clubs. 

Olise could fetch a figure of around £20 million, which would completely end Reading’s transfer woes. 

Getting rid of some fringe players on high wages, such as Sam Baldock, would also free up some financial room for new signings.

But, this has proven hard to do in the past. 

Reading’s recent success has its perks too, as the club selected for TV coverage the most this season, they have created an extra revenue stream. The income generated through this could pay for an extra loan player, or even a small transfer fee. 

Whether the Royals stay under financial restrictions or not, they have a major pull factor being so close to the top of the league. 

Being in a promotion race is a great experience for any player, and so it is hoped that Reading will be able to lure some high quality players in on loan, with the parent club helping out with the player’s wages. 

The Chronicle understands that Reading have already identified targets, using agent Kia Joorabchian, his contacts and the scouting department.

The club looking to bring in a winger, or two, as well as some other positions; including a centre back if Lewis Gibson is recalled by Everton through a January recall option in his loan’s contract.

However, if the Royals are released from FFP restrictions, which remains unlikely, it is understood that they will spend whatever is required to get promotion this season.