JAAP Stam is attempting to bolster his Reading FC back-line following links to two defenders.

Royals boss is said to be chasing Derby County's highly-rated Cyrus Christie to increase competition in the full-back area.

Christie, 24, made 30 appearances for the Rams last season after joining them from Coventry City in July 2014.

But reports have emerged suggesting Derby are willing to let Christie go after landing Andre Wisdom from Liverpool.

Christie has formed a reputation as one of the best full-backs in the Championship and he is unlikely to be short of offers.

Stam is already being linked with the Republic of Ireland international, though it is claimed QPR are also interested which could spark a bidding war.

Christie is the nephew of former boxer Errol Christie, who died last week aged 53 following a battle with cancer.

Reading Chronicle:

Cyrus Christie battles with Reading's Danny Williams during a match at iPro Stadium in January 2016. Photo: Dan Westwell.

Elsewhere, a Portuguese defender has also caught Stam's eye, according to media in the country.

The press in Portugal claim Frederico Venancio is being tracked by the Reading manager following some consistent performances for Vitoria Sebutal.

Venancio has played 131 times for the club and scored seven goals since making his debut for the Primeira Liga side in 2013.

The ex-Portugal Under 21 international clocked up 31 appearances in the Portuguese top-flight last season and is also being linked with Leeds United and Romanian club Steaua Bucuresti.

Stam is keen to refresh his squad for his second season in charge, having allowed Deniss Rakels to join Polish club Lech Poznan on a season-long loan last week.

The Reading Chronicle understands Royals' boss will be offered a new two-year contract by the club and will be handed a substantial transfer kitty by the new Chinese owners for another crack at promotion.

Director of football Brian Tevreden said recently: “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.

"There will be an opportunity to bring in new players.”

However, doubts remain over the future of out-of-contract Royals midfielder, Danny Williams.

The 28-year-old USA international has been offered a new deal but is yet to sign it and is now a free agent amid interest from Huddersfield Town, the side who beat Reading in the Championship play-off final to win promotion to the Premier League.