ALEX Pearce has been officially released by Reading FC.

The former Royals Academy graduate has allowed his contract to run down and is poised for a free transfer.

Three former Reading managers are among those tracking the 24-year-old defender, who was the club's Chronicle-sponsored Player of the Season in 2012.

Pearce has been heavily linked with Alan Pardew's Newcastle United and Brendan Rodgers' Liverpool, though sources suggest Brian McDermott is keen on taking him to Leeds United.

McDermott already looks likely to sign one of his former Reading players following strong interest in Noel Hunt.

Like Pearce, Hunt rejected several offers of a new contract with Reading.

The Irishman, 30, had been offered a one-year extension but wanted a longer deal.

The pair are among 11 Reading players placed on the Premier League free transfer list which was released today.

The others are Nick Bignall, Simon Church, Ian Harte, Charlie Losasso, Angus MacDonald, Nicky Shorey, Jay Tabb, Joshua Webb and Brett Williams.

Tabb has already made a permanent switch to loan club Ipswich Town where he has signed a two-year deal.

Meanwhile, Royals boss Nigel Adkins made his first signing at the club today with the capture of Wayne Bridge on a free transfer from Manchester City.

The 32-year-old ex-England left-back was heavily linked with QPR but has opted for a move to the Mad Stad where he will sign a one-year contract.

Adkins is also showing interest in Celtic's 25-year-old striker Gary Hooper, though a pricetag of around �8 million could put Royals off.

Hooper played under Adkins at Scunthorpe United and Royals' boss tried to take him to Southampton when he was in charge at St Mary's.

Royals have also been linked with Doncaster Rovers left back Tommy Spurr as well as former Wolves striker Sylvan Ebanks-Blake, Southampton forward Billy Sharp and Danish midfielder Martin Spellmann.