Reading defender Tom Holmes will have a medical at Premier League strugglers Luton Town later today, according to Football Insider.
The 23-year-old has made 129 appearances for the Royals since emerging through their academy, although found himself on the fringes of the squad earlier this season following the appointment of Ruben Selles. However, he had forced his way back into the team in recent weeks, starting five successive fixtures in December and captaining the side on three occasions.
Speculation of his exit had been doing the rounds, with the manager confirming that a bid had been accepted for both Holmes and his defensive teammate Nelson Abbey. Speaking in the aftermath of their abandoned League One clash against Port Vale, the ex-Southampton boss said:
“A proposal has been accepted by the club.
“One of them, we are managing the option to get a loan back.
“So that will not affect us in football terms. That doesn’t mean that they are going to leave us. The players need to agree terms to accept those proposals so it’s a little bit different.”
Luton are also in for Abbey, and Football Insider claim that it will be Holmes that will be loaned back to Reading upon the completion of his transfer to Kenilworth Road. The centre-back will undergo his medical today.
Meanwhile, Reading are bracing themselves for further sanctions following the on-pitch protests which led to their fixture being abandoned at the weekend. Several pundits have offered their support to the fans, who are becoming increasingly desperate in their attempt to rid the club of owner Dai Yongge.
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Reading remain in the relegation places in League One and travel to fellow strugglers Wigan Athletic next Saturday. Following that, Derby County visit the Select Car Leasing Stadium where further protests are expected.
Writer’s View
Reading’s situation means that other clubs are unfortunately looking for quick-fire bargain buys. The imminent departures of Holmes and Abbey is unlikely to be the last this month, with a number of clubs also looking at midfielder Charlie Savage.
However, supporters are less concerned about their playing staff and more about the future of the club. It’s a dire situation and the EFL need to step in before we see another club subjected to the history books.
Head of Writing
