READING FC have been heavily linked with a loan move for young West Ham star Reece Oxford, after the youngster posted a picture on social media.
The picture simply showed Oxford in a car with the caption 'en route', fuelling rumours the 18-year-old defender is on his way to the Royals.
Championship rivals Nottingham Forest were also chasing Oxford, but the teenager was spotted arriving at Madejski Stadium an hour ago and looks certain to join Reading on loan for the rest of the season.
BREAKING: Reece Oxf*rd is here. #BushWatch pic.twitter.com/m4lOfSnycr
— Jacob South Klein (@JacobSouthKlein) January 31, 2017
Royals boss Jaap Stam was keen to bring in defensive reinforcements with club-record signing Tiago Ilori ruled out for around six weeks through injury.
DS: "Don't expect much coming in today. We might have a couple of young players going out on loan. @Reeceoxford_ might be going to Reading."
— West Ham United (@WestHamUtd) January 31, 2017
Oxford is a highly-rated prospect at London Stadium, but it is understood Hammers manager Slaven Bilic is keen for Oxford to gain some first-team experience.
Oxford came through the ranks at West Ham and has made seven appearances for the Hammers to date.
Stam has already secured the services of Adrian Popa this transfer window while Jordan Mutch and striker Tomi Juric have also been linked with moves to Madejski Stadium.
Ilori also joined the Royals in a club-record deal, but the defender has been ruled out for up to six weeks with a ligament injury.
The Chronicle will keep you updated on any deadline day deals as they happen.
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