Reading Paper Talk 18/01/2007

The Times reports that Reading are keeping their eye on Luton Town`s defender, Leon Barnett.

According to the broadsheet, Steve Coppell has made a official enquiry regarding Barnett`s availabitly in the transfer window.

The Sun also runs a story suggesting Reading are after the Luton defender.

The Times again, suggests that Reading are interested in Middlesbrough kid, Seb Hines.

The England representing teen was on target against Hull in the FA Cup replay on Tuesday night, and is believed to be a target of many clubs.

Meanwhile the Mirror suggests that Reading will ignore Colchester`s inflated price of 4M for the versatile defender, Greg Halford.

The article proposes that Reading will offer a cool 2M in a final attempt to bag Halford.

The Sun also maintains that Reading are preparing a bid for Halford.

With all the talk of player moving clubs this one almost escaped us!!

Nicky Hammond, Reading`s Director of Football, is said to be a target of Aton Villa.

Hammond plays a huge role in bringing players to Reading and looking after contract negotiations.

The ex-goalkeeper, 39, helped bring Sidwell, Doyle, Sonko and Convey to the club.

According to the reading Evening Post, Hammond is being targeted for a similar role at Villa Park.

Hammond comments hardly quashed the rumours: “I’ve got nothing to say other than I have not applied for a job anywhere.”