Published: Thursday, 11th June, 2009 3:00pm

Wolves in for Hahnemann

by Anthony Smith

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MARCUS Hahnemann could be set for a shock return to the Premier League with Wolverhampton Wanderers.

The 36-year-old goalkeeper was released by Reading last month and is currently a free agent.

But it is rumoured Wolves boss Mick McArthy is a big admirer of Hahnemann and wants to take him to Molineux on lucrative two-year deal.

Wolves already have three keepers on their books in Wales" Wayne Hennessey, Carl Ikeme and Matt Murray.

But sources say McCarthy believes Hahnemann"s top-flight experience could be crucial in their first season back in the Premier League.

However, the USA international, who made more than 300 appearances for Reading, is thought to have a string of other offers on the table.

Meanwhile, Birmingham and Sunderland have joined the race to sign want-away Royals winger Stephen Hunt.

Hunt put a number of clubs on red alert this week by claiming he is seeking a 'fresh start.'

Everton have also been linked with a £10 million swoop for Hunt plus Royals striker Kevin Doyle.

The club would find that kind of money difficult to turn down in the final year of their Premier League parachute payments.

And new boss Brendan Rodgers has already been told he will have to sell to raise transfer funds.

It is understood Rodgers wants to raid his old club Watford and make their player of the year Tommy Smith his first Royals signing.

There is no legally-binding agreement in place between Reading and Watford preventing Rodgers from buying any of his former at Vicarage Road.

The cash-strapped Hornets also need the money and may let 29-year-old Smith go for around £500,000 as he is entering the final year of his contract.

Reading director of football Nick Hammond confirmed the battle to retain the likes of Doyle and Hunt could now be lost.

'There will have to be some dealings in the transfer market,' he told the Chronicle.

'I want to give the manager flexibility to try and bring in new players.

'It"s sad when players go, especially when they have played such a big part in bringing success to the club.

'But we feel the time is right to make the changes and give Brendan the opportunity to stamp his own mark on the squad.

"We are always looking to strengthen the team.'

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