Royals close in on second signing

Reading are close to signing Crawley midfielder Hope Akpan and is having a medical at the club, according to Sky Sports.

The 21-year old has been impressing for the League One outfit, with scouts from various Championship sides keeping an eye on Akpan, however, he is set to sign a three and a half year deal at the Madejski Stadium later today. Hope is primarily a centre midfielder, who is known for his attacking intent and goalscoring ability for midfield.

Akpan started his career at Everton, but failed to force his way into the first team, so had a short tenure on loan with Hull City in 2011, before moving to Crawley Town on a free transfer last season. McDermott is also believed to have been impressed with the youngster in the Royals’ recent encounter with Crawley in the FA Cup third round.

With this transfer being imminent, I can only assume that the deal to sign Tom Rogic is off. Many fans have voiced their criticism with this target and are calling for Premier League experience, but we have to remember the signing of Daniel Carrico is a major coup for a club of our stature. Lets give the lad a chance first!

Hope Akpan