Contract talks between Reading and defender Tom Holmes are 'progressing', the Reading Chronicle understands. 

22-year-old Academy graduate Holmes is one of 17 players offered a new deal by the club hierarchy, with the likes of Andy Rinomhota, Andy Yiadom and Josh Laurent also offered extensions.

The centre-back played more than 30 times last season and impressed, attracting interest from competitors higher in the pyramid, but it looks likely that he will remain in Berkshire.

Nottingham Forest were one of the clubs strongly linked with the defender, although it is thought that the Tricky Trees may be looking elsewhere after their promotion to the Premier League.

With the players not expected to return to pre-season training for another fortnight, and many still away on holiday, there is likely still some way to go before supporters are told either way regarding players' futures.

The Royals currently have just nine players under contract ahead of next season, a list mainly compiled of youth products.