Reading are reportedly set to sign former Birmingham City captain Harlee Dean on a free transfer, following his departure from the Championship side, as confirmed by journalist Darren Witcoop on Twitter.
The 32-year-old is a free agent, following the expiry of his contract at St. Andrews has been training with Reading for almost two weeks, but is now set to be rewarded with a contract at the League One side.
Who is Harlee Dean?
The experienced defender has been a proven Championship player for almost a decade, following his impressive performances for Brentford and his brief run of matches at Birmingham City before he fell out of favour.
He had a loan stint with Sheffield Wednesday in early 2022, but it wasn’t enough to see him become part of John Eustace’s plans at the club.
The rebuild continues
Following their relegation last season, Reading has lost several key players such as Lucas Joao and Yakou Miete, as work begins on finding new recruits to try and take the Royals back into the Championship this season.
Former academy graduate Sam Smith has re-joined the side, alongside his Cambridge teammate Harvey Knibbs. Similarly, Wyconbe’s Lewis Wing has also linked up with the League One side ahead of the upcoming campaign.
What’s been said?
According to a Twitter post from journalist Darren Witcoop, all parties involved have managed to come to a mutual agreement, bringing the signing ever closer. He states…
‘Reading poised to sign defender Harlee Dean following a trial spell on a one-year deal. Dean was a free agent after leaving Birmingham in the summer.’
Writer’s View
With the Royals suffering the departure of Liam Moore, the League One side have become much more exposed in defence but signing someone like Dean is a major statement of intent.
He brings a wealth of experience and leadership to the League One side next season and will be pushing to make sure he is one of the first names on the team sheet next season.
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