BRIAN McDermott believes new signing George Evans can become an 'even better player' with Reading FC, writes Anthony Smith.

Royals landed the 21-year-old Manchester City starlet on a three-and-a-half year deal last night.

Evans watched his new teammates come back from 2-0 down to beat Huddersfield Town 5-2 in a nailbiting FA Cup third round replay at Madejski Stadium.

He was cup tied on the night, but could be included in McDermott's squad for Saturday's home league clash against Sheffield Wednesday (3pm).

Evans has received some of the best coaching around after joining Manchester City at the age of six.

But McDermott is confident there is more to come from the youngster.

He said: “I am delighted we have secured the signing of George.

“I saw him play for Walsall while I was scouting for Arsenal and we’ve followed him ever since.

“He is a great guy and a terrific young midfielder with great pedigree, and I’m sure he will become an even better player working in our environment at Reading.”

It is believed there is no transfer fee involved in the deal as Evans' contract with City was due to expire in the summer. However, there will be bonuses and add-ons based on appearances and goals.

Evans made his first-team debut for City in the Capital One Cup victory at Sunderland earlier this season.

He was also named on the bench for Manuel Pellegrini’s side’s Premier League fixture against Tottenham as well as their Champions League visit to Borussia Monchengladbach.

Evans was one of eight from Patrick Vieira’s Elite Development Squad to join the likes of Sergio Aguero on a post-season tour to Toronto and he was also heavily involved in City’s pre-season schedule ahead.

Evans’ first taste of competitive first team football came as an 18-year-old loanee with Crewe Alexandra during the 2013-14 Leage One season.

He joined Scunthorne on loan last season and has played 16 matches on loan from Walsall this season.

Evans, a former England youth international, played a key role in helping Saddlers reach the FA Cup fourth round, where they will now play Reading on Saturday week.

He scored against Fleetwood Town and Chesterfield then helped to knock out Championship side Brentford in the third round.

Royals chief executive Nigel Howe added: “I’m delighted George has decided to join Reading Football Club.

“He is a very promising young footballer who, with an excellent footballing education behind him and first team experience already under his belt, perfectly fits this football club.”

Meanwhile, Reading could be on the verge of a second signing this week, with Yann Kermorgant, 34, set for a medical today ahead of a £500,000 move from Bournemouth.

However, Royals are likely to fight off any approach from West Ham for centre-back, Jake Cooper, following links in the national media.