ADRIAN Mariappa has completed his move to Crystal Palace - as Reading FC close in on a string of new signings before tonight's 11pm deadline.

The 26-year-old defender joined the Eagles earlier today for an undisclosed fee, believed to be in the region of £2.5 million.

He becomes the second Royals player to move to Selhurst Park in a matter of days after winger Jimmy Kebe, who sealed a £2 million switch late on Saturday evening.

Meanwhile, Reading boss Nigel Adkins and director of football Nick Hammond hope to finalise a number of deals before the transfer window shuts later tonight.

Sources suggest Royals are lining up a £1.8 million bid for Norwich City striker Luciano Becchio.

Reports have also emerged stating Adkins has held talks with former Liverpool and Juventus midfielder Momo Sissoko.

The 28-year-old currently plays for Paris Saint-Germain but spent a recent loan spell with Fiorentina in Italy.

Mariappa joined Royals from Watford for £2.5 million a little over a year ago. He made 32 appearances last season but has struggled to hold down a regular place under Adkins.

Mariappa told the official Palace website: “I'm delighted to be joining Palace and playing in the Premier League again. It's something everyone dreams of doing.

“Playing there last season was a great challenge as it is is the biggest league in the world and you're playing against the best players, so when this opportunity came to me I jumped at it.

'”Selhurst Park is always a great place to play, the atmosphere has always been amazing and I've had some great games against this club.

“I want to prove I can play at this level an I'm sure that will be the same for everyone in the squad as we aim to stay in the Premier League.”

More to follow...