Reading FC manager Veljko Paunovic has provided insight into the role and influence of football intermediary Kia Joorbachian at the football club.

“I think he’s friends with the owner, he’s known as an advisor not only to our owner but he’s obviously been involved in football for a long time,” Paunovic said on Thursday afternoon ahead of Reading’s trip to QPR.

“So that’s all I can tell you, that’s all I know.”

When asked if Joorabchian was Paunovic’s agent, the manager shook his head before responding to further questioning on his own relationship with the agent - confirming that he does have discussions with Joorabchian.

“I do have conversations with him and with everyone, I’m open to everyone. I do have conversations with a lot of people. He’s advising the owner, so you have to ask the owner.

"I think he definitely wants the best for the people he advises, that’s all I can tell you, that’s all I know.

“As far as I’m concerned he’s doing his profession. I can’t answer those questions, you can ask me about other agents other people in the industry, I know that people are calling everywhere and that’s part of football. I don’t have answers for you and I’m sorry.”

In a recent article in The Guardian, Joorabchian denied having any influence at Reading but multiple sources in and around the football club have told the Chronicle that they believe the opposite is true.