NIGEL Adkins is close to be appointed the new manager of Reading FC.

As exclusively revealed by the Chronicle two weeks ago, Royals pinpointed Adkins and Gus Poyet as the two best candidates to take the club forward in the wake of Brian McDermott's sacking.

Poyet, though, turned down Reading's advances last week in order to concentrate on his job with Brighton & Hove Albion.

Adkins, 48, also met Royals representatives last week but reports suggested he was not keen on taking on the role at Madejski Stadium.

However, it appears further talks have now taken place and sources say Adkins is on the verge of being formally unveiled, with many bookmakers refusing to take bets.

Adkins, who was sacked by Southampton in January, would need to perform a miracle to save Royals from relegation.

Five straight defeats mean they are seven points from safety with eight matches remaining and a trip to Arsenal up next this Saturday (3pm ko).