January Sales

Reading have just made their first signing of the transfer window in the form of Czech international Marek ‘Next Pavel Nedved’ Matejovsky, so I’ve decided to do a brief round-up of potential transfer activity at the Mad Stad over the next month.

Rumoured Players In

Michael Mifsud – Coventry City
From what I’ve seen of Mifsud, he looks a good player. Quick and skillful with an eye for goal. He could be a good signing if Lita leaves, but we could have had him for free in the summer, so spending a few million on him now would be bad business.
Probability: Possible

Bobby Zamora – West Ham
Once again we have been linked with a move for the West Ham striker, all I can say is no, no, oh please god no.
Probability: Highly unlikely

Matty Taylor – Pompey
One of the stronger rumours going around. He is a great player, who I would love to have at the club, the only problem is the left side of midfield is probably our strongest position at the moment. Saying that he could be seen as a replacement for Shorey should he go to West Ham, or for Hunt if he leaves for Sunderland.
Probability: Possible

Sami Hyypia – Liverpool
I for one would be delighted if we signed Hyypia. The centre of defence has been our biggest problem this season and Hyypia, a quality player with Premier League experience could be just what we need. The only problem is that Steve Coppell has publicly said he is looking for players for the long term, and Hyypia certainly isn’t getting any younger.
Probability: Unlikely


Rumoured Players Out

Leroy Lita – Pompey/Sunderland
Despite Reading saying they are not looking to sell anyone in January, Lita could well be on his way. He is obviously not happy at being 4th choice striker and Steve Coppell is obviously not happy with his attitude, some kind of cash plus Matt Taylor deal has been suggested and this could well be on the cards.
Probability: Likely

Stephen Hunt – Sunderland
Roy Keane has made no secret of the fact that he wants to sign his fellow Irishman, and Sunderland have apparently had two bids turned down already. Reading have reportedly offered Hunt a new contract but Hunt himself has admitted he doesn’t know where his future lies.
Probability: Possible

Nicky Shorey – West Ham
It wouldn’t be a transfer window without Nicky Shorey being linked with West Ham. After being heavily linked with him in the summer, the interest seems to have cooled slightly, although the Daily Mail did suggest the transfer could be back on. For me West Ham’s George McCartney has been one of the best left backs in the league this season and I see no reason for them to replace him.
Probability: Unlikely

Kevin Doyle – Chelsea
There was an outrageous shout in one of the national papers that Chelsea were looking to sign Doyle. I’d say there’s as much chance of Doyle going to Chelsea, as Ronaldinho going to ‘Boro.
Probability: Not an f-ing chance.



Overall it seems likely that we will bring in at least one more player before the end of the month, hopefully an experienced centre-back. As with the Matejovsky signing, I believe whoever we do bring in will probably be kept quiet until the very last minute.

In the sales department, unless Sunderland make an offer for Hunt the club deem too good to refuse, I think Lita will be the only player to leave, with Portsmouth looking the most likely destination.