Hull have accepted Royals’ £650,000 offer for Hobbs, but the defender looked set to join loan club Nottingham Forest.

However, the deal fell through and 25-year-old Hobbs is believed to have held talks with Royals boss Nigel Adkins earlier this week.

Wigan Athletic are also tracking the ex-Liverpool defender while Championship leaders Leicester City are believed to have joined the race.

Hull boss Steve Bruce confirmed Hobbs is certain to leave the KC Stadium this week, though his destination remains unclear.

"He has permission to speak to them so it's up to him to sort out now," Bruce said.

"The ball is in his court and we'll see where he goes before Friday."

Reading have also renewed their interest in Scottish international Dorrans, having missed out in November.

The 26-year-old cultured midfielder is out of contract at the Hawthorns this summer and has been previously linked with West Ham and Middlesbrough.

Royals boss Nigel Adkins is determined to strengthen his squad for a promotion push, but he has limited funds to spend while the club's ongoing takeover saga rumbles on.

Meanwhile, Reading could have a battle on their hands to keep hold of goalkeeper Alex McCarthy.

The 24-year-old stopper is being linked with a move to Arsenal, who are eager to strengthen in that position.

In more fanciful rumours, Fulham are said to be weighing up a seven-figure offer for Royals winger Royston Drenthe.

Reading will be aiming to bounce back from Saturday's 2-0 defeat at Ipswich Town when they host Blackpool at Madejski Stadium tonight.

SEE THE CHRONICLE WEBSITE FOR LIVE COVERAGE OF TONIGHT'S CLASH BETWEEN READING FC AND BLACKPOOL.