Royals Sign Another Hunt

As exclusively revealed yesterday here at Vital Reading, Dundee United striker Noel Hunt has completed his move to Reading.

Hunt, younger brother of Royals winger Stephen, has signed a three-year contract at the Madejski Stadium and has arrived for an undisclosed fee, believed to be in the region of £600,000.

Nick Hammond, Reading`s Director of Football, believes Hunt has what it takes to be a success at Reading.

He said, ‘I’d like to thank chief executive Stephen Thompson and manager Craig Levein for their assistance in concluding this deal.

‘Dundee United didn’t want to lose Noel, but understood his real desire to embark upon a new challenge with Reading Football Club.

‘From my conversations with Noel, it is clear that he possesses the qualities of hunger and determination that Steve Coppell wants at this club as we attempt to regain a place in the Premier League.’

Dundee United boss Craig Levein was disappointed to see Hunt leave, but believes it is a good deal for the club and a great opportunity for the player.

Levein said, ‘This transfer represents an excellent deal for Dundee United and helps bring further financial stability to the club.

‘Following an initial enquiry last season, we were aware that Reading might make a formal offer before the close of this transfer window and made plans accordingly.

‘We knew that a formal offer would require serious consideration and we knew we had to plan to replace Noel before it became too late to do so.’

Hunt will now join up with the rest of the Reading squad in Sweden and will take the number 11 shirt, left vacant by the legendary John Oster.