Leicester confirm interest in Reading FC's Long

Sportsdesk • Published 2 Aug 2011 09:30 1 Comment

LEICESTER City boss Sven-Goran Eriksson has confirmed that Reading FC striker Shane Long is a target for the Foxes this summer.

The 24-year-old has 12 months remaining on his deal at the Madejski and has been linked with a move away this summer.

Former Royals skipper Matt Mills has already made the switch to the King Power Stadium during the transfer window and Leicester are hoping Long will follow.

"He is one of the list but he may end up in the Premier League this season, so it will be difficult, but he is one we have worked with," Eriksson said.

Along with Leicester, Long has been linked with a move to a host of Premier League clubs as well as West Ham, who have had a bid for the striker turned down.

With the Hammers expected to return with an improved offer, Republic of Ireland international Long refused to rule out a move to Upton Park.

"If it was true they were interested, West Ham are a big club, so it would definitely be something for me to think about," he said.

"However, I wouldn't be that disappointed if nothing happened and I stayed at Reading. I'm happy here and I like playing under the manager [Brian McDermott]. If an offer comes in and the club accepted it then that's different but I'm not dying to get out."

Former West Ham striker Paulo Di Canio, who now manages Swindon Town, believes Long would be a good signing for the Hammers.

"'He can play at the top level and I followed him last year. He is a clever player and has great skill and ability who could play in a Premier League side. West Ham are no longer in the Premier League, but I hope they can sign him because he is an intelligent striker. He would be a good signing for West Ham," he commented.

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This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 02 Aug 11

Have your say. Post a comment on this article.

• 

  Stevie B
  Unregistered User
  Aug 3, 13:54
  Report comment

  Seems as though there is a bidding-war going on to acquire the services of Long! I thought my team (WBA) had offered 8 million for him, if thats not enough we'll spend our cash on a proven Premier League striker.
  
  Recommend?   Yes 0     No 1

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