Reading FC are reportedly doing business with Premier League club Luton Town once again this January, following the sale of Tom Holmes to Kenilworth Road.
The Royals’ off-field issues have seen a number of players sold this window as they attempt to sustain themselves for the short term.
The sales of Holmes, albeit which included a loan move back to the Select Car Leasing Stadium, along with the outgoings of Tom Mcintyre and Nelson Abbey were not the only moves Ruben Selles’ side are making this month.
Another player who looks set to be added to that list is academy prospect Taylan Harris, according to Fabrizio Romano.
It is reported that The Hatters have completed a deal with both the club and the player for the 18-year-old to move on a permanent deal to Kenilworth Road.
Harris has only played one match in professional football, but his contribution of a goal and an assist in that debut certainly set him apart in a game which saw his team run out 9-0 winners against Exeter City in the Bristol Street Motors Trophy, a competition which the Berkshire outfit were subsequently knocked out of in the second round as they lost to Brighton’s U-21 side on penalties.
The attacker can be added to an ever-growing list of players to come out of the Reading Academy and into professional football. Despite their off-field issues, the club have managed to retain a category-one academy status.
Reading will be hoping to climb out of the relegation zone this weekend as they travel to playoff hopefuls Oxford United.
Writer’s View
This transfer is yet another blow for a club already in turmoil. They may not be losing a key starter, but what they’re missing out on here is the opportunity to develop a hot prospect into an important player at the club, for what is likely to be a much smaller fee now than they could receive down the line.
This is shrewd business however from Luton. Again, it is unlikely that the youngster will be getting any Premier League minutes this season, however, after an impressive win at home to Brighton this week, survival is looking very possible, a prediction not many would have made at the start of the season. If that does happen, don’t be too surprised to see their new addition in a matchday squad in the top flight in the next couple of seasons.
