Juanma Linked With Reading

According to reports first published on the Sky Sports News website Reading are to try and bring Deportivo La Coruna defender Delgado Manuel Juanma.

The 30 year old, Spanish defender`s agent has told the website that Reading are heading the pack to get the almost out of contract defenders signature.

As one of the few foreign teams chasing Juanma, Reading would be able to tie up a deal immediately while clubs domestic to Spain will have to wait until the player is in fact out of contract.

Juanma has not featured as frequently in the Deportivo line up as he used to this season, some believe due to the clause that signs him a new contract should he start 25 games this season.

Speaking to the Sky Sports website, Juanma`s agent, Mario Parri said:

‘I attended a meeting with the president Augusto Cesar Lendorio to try and find out the real position of the club regarding this subject (of the clause in his contract) and I believe the best solution for all would be to annul this clause,’

‘For a professional it is unjust to wait many months to study the future.

‘Initially my desire is to continue at Deportivo, but the club has not answered my request.

‘Also the English option is more than adequate.

‘We need to find a speedy solution for us to make a decision. Juanma has several options in Spain, but Reading is the main one.

But how true is what Parri says?

Personally I think Juanma`s agent is looking to pressurize an interest out of Deportivo by making up this story. As of yet there has been no confirmation from Reading FC and I doubt there will be.

I think Juanma and his agent are looking to unsettle Deportivo as Juanma would like to see his contract renewed with the club or at least find out where he stand at the club as soon as possible so his immediate future can be decided.

At 30 years old the defender is hardly a spring chicken and may be worried about seeing his career end at a lowlier club then Deportivo.

As one of this season`s high flyers, alleged interest from the Royals could stir Deportivo into action over Juanma`s future.

And besides, Reading now have an abundance of defenders why would they want another ageing one?

Parri`s closing statement supports my view:

“The offer is serious and important. They have set a deadline for the answer and we want to close the subject.’