Kebe edges close to new Reading FC deal
Anthony Smith • Published 5 Jan 2012 11:31
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ROYALS boss Brian McDermott has told rival clubs that Jimmy Kebe is not for sale in January.
Earlier this week Reading knocked back a bid believed to be from Championship rivals West Ham United for the out-of-contract winger.
And McDermott revealed he still hopes to persuade Kebe to stay at the Madejski Stadium, with talks over a new deal now at an advanced stage.
Speaking exclusively to the Chronicle, McDermott said: "We're not interested in selling Jimmy whether it's to a Championship club or whoever, it's as simple as that.
"We're trying to do a deal with Jimmy and it's important people know that. I have spoken to him again and we are trying to tie things up.
"I'm very close to Jimmy, I've known him a long time and I know he wants to stay here. Now it's up to him and the club to sort something out."
Kebe has rejected an additional 12 month contract with Reading on improved terms. If the situation stands, he could leave the Madejski Stadium on a free transfer at the end of this season.
Reading, though, are not prepared to sell during this month's transfer window and still harbour hopes of changing Kebe's mind.
A host of clubs are interested in the former Lens player who was heavily linked with Leicester City and Fulham last summer. But it seems it would take a huge offer to prize Kebe away now, news that is sure to be welcomed by legions of Royals fans.
"Everybody has a price, including Wayne Rooney," added McDermott. "But I don't want to sell Jimmy.
"It hasn't been easy for him. He wants his future to be settled and rightly so because he has a family. We're trying to do that."
Ironically, Kebe was at the centre of a storm involving West Ham last month in their 3-0 defeat by Reading at Madejski Stadium.
He was accused of showboating after appearing to pull up his socks while in possession of the ball towards the end of the match. Hammers midfielder Jack Collison took offence and steamed into the Royals winger, resulting in an automatic red card.
McDermott is now ready to fight off any further advances from Hammers boss Sam Allardyce.
"Every Reading player will tell you Jimmy brings a lot to the dressing room," added McDermott. "He's a really popular lad and he likes it here.
"He's told me that he wants to stay and hopefully he can reach an agreement with the club fairly soon."
Meanwhile, McDermott admitted he could bring in some new players of his own this month. "We could do some business in January," he confirmed. "We will see what comes our way."
This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 05 Jan 12
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