Reading close in on Eastleigh striker

Anthony Smith • Published 13 Jan 2011 14:40 0 Comments

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READING are on the verge of signing highly-rated striker Brett Williams from Conference South club Eastleigh.

Royals were due to land Bradley Wright-Phillips from Plymouth Argyle for £300,000 this week, but they pulled the plug when he failed a medical.

Now boss Brian McDermott is closing in on 23-year-old Williams who scored in a 2-0 victory for Reading reserves against Colchester United's second-string at Hogwood Park on Tuesday.

Royals have been trying to keep the deal under wraps, only for Eastleigh boss Ian Baird to confirm the club's strong interest.

"I received an emailed offer from Reading, which I've forwarded to our chairman Paul Murray," said Baird.

"I know Reading are keen to do something as quickly as possible. Dave Malone was due back late last night and we have a meeting arranged for today (Thursday).

"He's taken his opportunity now and I think he's finally starting to understand what a brilliant opportunity this is to go to a fantastic club like Reading.

"The deal's not done yet, but it looks as if the door is open for Brett. The opportunity's there and I hope he grasps it."

Meanwhile, Reading are also being linked with 20-year-old Swindon Town defender Sean Morrison.

Morrison has been in excellent form for the Robins and has scored five goals in 25 league and cup appearances this season.

The centre-back impressed on loan at Southend United last term and has subsequently forced his way into manager Danny Wilson's first-team plans.

Royals also extended Mikele Leigertwood's loan from QPR this week which now runs until May 31 and includes the Championship play-offs.

This article appeared in Reading Chronicle 13 Jan 11

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