Long would consider Hammers move

In demand Reading striker Shane Long has admitted that he could consider a move to Championship rivals West Ham, although he would be happy if be ended up staying with the Royals.

The Berkshire club are looking for around £8m for their star striker and have already turned down an approach from the Hammers.

Long stated in the Independent on Sunday: ‘West Ham are a big club, so it would definitely be something for me to think about.’

However, Reading aren’t keen to sell to a Championship rival and Brian McDermott stated he would only leave for a Premier League club, which would also rule out potential suitors Celtic.

Sam Allardyce remained coy when asked about Long, but it is understood he is keen to add a striker to his list with Long believed to be high on this list.

The Republic of Ireland has however stated that he isn’t looking to leave the Royals and would be happy to stay, despite the risk of Reading losing him for nothing next summer.

The 24-year old continued to say: ‘But I wouldn’t be that disappointed if nothing happened and I stayed at Reading. I’m happy here and I like playing under the manager. I’m not dying to get out.’