In the latest twist to Reading's protracted takeover saga, 75-year-old Rob Couhig has emerged as a leading candidate.

Someone previously largely unknown by Royals supporters, many know about the American now, or at least have heard the name.

That is because as recently as March, while owner of near-neighbours Wycombe Wanderers, Couhig attempted to buy the Royals' prestigious Bearwood training facility.

Causing outrage amongst supporters, protests were held outside the Chairboys' Adam's Park stadium and eventually, a deal fell through.

Take a look below to learn a little more about the lawyer and businessman.

(Image: PA)

Brief business history

Born in 1949, Couhig began his legal career in 1975 and founded his Couhig Partners firm in 2003. 

In 1993, Couhig took over Triple A Zephyrs baseball team and he also owned a football team named New Orleans Riverboat Gamblers.

Wycombe Wanderers

2019 saw a takeover attempt of Yeovil Town fail to materialise but in 2020 Couhig and his family took over Wycombe Wanderers.

In a four-year association with the Chairboys, the club achieved five of it's six all-time finishes and most notably earned promotion to the Championship for the first time in its history.

This was not without its controversy however, with Wycombe attempting to open a legal case against Derby County while the Rams were in administration.

Their claim was due to loss of earnings from relegation, with Derby staying up despite breaching EFL financial regulations.

Of course, another controversy followed this year relating to the club and Bearwood training facility.

His comments about Reading supporters protesting did even little to endear himself to the fanbase, questioning their motives and actions.

Selling to billionaire Mikheil Lomtadze last month, Couhig officially stepped down as chairman of the club last week, increasing speculation linking him with the Royals.