READING FC director of football Brian Tevreden revealed Jaap Stam will have cash to splash on new players this summer.

The 35-year-old also suggested he will do everything in his power to make sure out-of-contract Royals star Danny Williams remains at Madejski Stadium next season.

Tevreden was left devastated as he watched Stam’s men fall apart at the final hurdle at Wembley on Monday afternoon, crashing out of the play-off final to Huddersfield Town in a cruel penalty shoot-out.

However, the Dutchman, who accompanied new owners Dai Yongge and Dai Xiu Li to the match at Wembley Stadium, admitted he has held talks with the Chinese duo and suggested manager Jaap Stam could have a war chest of funds to spend in the transfer window.

Speaking exclusively to the Reading Chronicle, Tevreden said: “I’m really gutted. Obviously we were really close to going up to the Premier League but penalty shootouts are a lottery.

“We need to be proud of what we have achieved this year.

"Of course we wanted to win the play-off final but now we need to re-build for next year and try to improve in the areas where we need to improve.”

Royals have been heavily linked with a multi-million pound swoop for Nancy defender Modou Diagne, with several clubs thought to be chasing his signature following his club’s relegation from French Ligue 1.

Meanwhile, midfielder George Evans is rumoured to be on the verge of signing a bumper four-year contract following a string of stellar performances.

Reading Chronicle:

Jaap Stam consoles Jordan Obita after Reading's play-off final defeat at Wembley.

When asked if Stam would have money to invest in his squad this summer, Tevreden replied: “There will be an opportunity to bring in new players.”

Fans have been left deeply concerned about USA international Williams’ future at Madejski Stadium, with his contract due to expire at the end of the month.

Supporters took to social media to plead for the midfield maestro to stay at the club, with some branding him Royals’ best player.

And Tevreden asserted: “I want to keep Danny Williams at Reading.”

Royals will enjoy a well-deserved rest before returning to pre-season training on June 26.

Reading Chronicle:

A gutted Danny Williams is now a free agent.