Reading chase £8m rated Ince

After missing out on a deal for Andrey Arshavin the Telegraph are reporting that Reading are looking to secure the signature of Tom Ince instead.

Until recently it seemed as though Liverpool had a deal for Ince sewn up, but then apparently Blackpool literally stopped answering their phone calls and the young winger’s future is now unclear.

It would take a bid of around £8m to secure Ince’s services, which seems like a lot for a club in Reading’s position. Of course it is admirable that they are planning for the future and making a more long-term signing, but it seems doubtful that Ince would be able to come in and instantly have the kind of impact the royals need to stay up.

Apparently the 20-year-old would prefer a move back to Liverpool – I’m guessing he didn’t watch their defeat at Oldham – but if Reading are the only club to come in with an acceptable bid then Ince may not be able to turn down the opportunity to play in the Premier League. Although with Brian McDermott’s side sitting in the relegation zone, it may not be a long stay.

If their move for Ince fails then Reading apparently have a third choice winger who is going to come riding to their rescue. Don’t get your hopes up though Royals fans, that man is David Bentley who is after some first team football after spending the first half of the season on loan at Russian side FC Rostov. Good luck.

Jack Johnson