Reading FC boss Paunovic not eyeing quiet transfer window

Last month, the Royals were handed a six-point deduction by the EFL and a further suspended six-point deduction should they not follow an agreed-upon business plan but Paunovic believes that Reading will can still do business in the upcoming transfer window despite those limitations.

"The last thing we want is to lose someone but it’s the winter transfer window and anything can happen," Paunovic said. "We have things in place, we have a plan to replace those that might be interesting for other clubs. We already got some enquiries.

"But on the other side, we will be active. We will look within the limitations that we are under to add some depth to the team - which I think we still need. And some reinforcements if possible. For that we will need to see. We are not market movers, we will always within our possibilities, look for those targets that are within our reach. Then we have to see if they will still be there once the market starts to move."

Veljko Paunovic watches over Reading's 1-1 draw with Hull. Image by: JasonPIX

In addition to adding depth to the squad as well as dealing with any potential outgoings, Reading have a number of players with contracts set to expire in the next six months. Paunovic confirmed on Friday that the club has begun conversations with those they want to keep including striker Andy Carrol whose deal runs out in January.

"We are in conversations. We already approached Andy - our deadline was last week - we already approached Andy and we are in conversations so hopefully everything looks well and we can extend his commitment with us for the rest of the season at least.

"There is nothing close yet but we approached all of the players who we want to extend so it’s ongoing for now. 

"The sooner the better. I do expect (some contracts to be signed soon) but at the same time I have to expect it might not. We have to have something planned in place to replace some players if things don’t go as we like.

"We want everyone to feel happy, to feel wanted, to feel part of the club whether they are going to continue with us or now. And we definitely need everyone. So far everyone has been given an absolute commitment from our club, from our staff, from myself and that’s what we expect to be given in return."

Paunovic's side are expected to be back in action on Monday afternoon as they welcome Derby County to the Select Car Leasing Stadium following a three-game hiatus due to the recent Covd outbreak at the club.