Noel Hunt has confirmed that Premier League strugglers Southampton have shown interest in Reading teenager Andre Garcia.
The 17-year-old has had a breakout year for The Royals and has played 25 times in his debut season from left-back, having graduated straight from the under-18’s side.
“Don’t Believe Everything You Read”
Reports emerged on Friday from Fabrizio Romano that Southampton had tabled a package in the region of £2 million to Reading to try and sign Garcia, and that their opening proposal was rejected last week. The Saints are currently bottom of the Premier League and will be in the market for fullbacks with strong reports that the versatile Kyle Walker-Peters will leave the club in the near future.
Noel Hunt has since commented on the reports to the Reading Chronicle following their game against Leyton Orient, confirming that a bid had been lodged by Southampton. He said:
“I spoke to Brian [Carey]. There’s a lot more detail that goes into that [£2m offer],” he said. “The initial start and that, it’s all a big factor in that. Don’t believe everything you read. There were a couple of calls and there is something behind it but nothing that we feel is the valuation that we think Andre is worth.”
Reading would be unable to replace Garcia externally should a move be allowed due to transfer restrictions placed on the club.
Writer’s View
Reading have held firm in their stance that no key players will be allowed to leave the club this window and they are unlikely to budge despite what money Southampton throw at Andre Garcia. The 17-year-old has been a breakout star in League One and could be a very strong candidate for Young Player of the Year in the division with how well he and The Royals are playing. Even should a deal be accepted, Garcia should stick to playing with Reading as he has nailed himself as a starter, whilst a move to St. Mary’s would likely see him face multiple loan moves for game time, akin to how Ronnie Edwards fared from his transfer from Peterborough United in the summer.
