Reading are facing a huge battle to keep hold of defender Amadou Mbengue as interest from the Championship begins to heat up.
The 23-year-old joined the Royals in 2022 from French top flight side Metz. He immediately established himself in the team, impressing despite relegation from the Championship.
His form earned him a new two-year deal in 2023, which is set to expire at the end of this month. Reading did confirm at the end of the season that they had offered the centre-back fresh terms, but reports have emerged over the past week claiming that the likes of Queens Park Rangers and Preston North End are hoping to land the player on a free transfer.
Mbengue Transfer Update Emerges
With the Dai Yongge saga now firmly behind them, the Berkshire-based club can now enter a period of stability. They will be looking to climb back up the football pyramid and will be hoping to retain the services of their core group of players.
It appears as if goalkeeper Joel Pereira is set to commit his future to the club, whilst speculation continues to mount over a potential transfer for midfielder Charlie Savage. However, defender Tyler Bindon’s move to Nottingham Forest was confirmed in February whilst his centre-back partner could be the next out the door.
Amadou Mbengue looking for Sam Smith in Tyler Bindon’s pocket. This is the kind of content we’re here for 😂#ReadingFCpic.twitter.com/9VIwCfJP4T
— The Real EFL (@RealEFLSocial) March 11, 2025
According to RDG.Today, Reading are keen to keep hold of Mbengue but the list of Championship clubs interested continues to grow. It is claimed that Coventry City and Watford are also keen, whilst promoted Charlton Athletic have also been linked in the past few days.
The former Senegal international has made 109 appearances for the club, scoring three times.
Writer’s View
The job in which Ruben Selles then Noel Hunt have done at Reading over the past couple of years has been nothing short of staggering. With all they have had to contend with off the field, it would have been easy for the Royals to slip into obscurity following their relegation from the Championship. Despite that, they found themselves pushing for a play-off place last season. Unfortunately, this means that clubs in the division above are keeping a close eye on a number of their key players. Whilst some remain committed to the cause, it appears as if the offers on the table are too good for Mbengue to resist.
