Reading look set to miss out on another defensive target as Brighton defender Alex Cochrane edges towards Hearts switch, according to reports.

The 22-year-old rose through the Academy ranks with the Seagulls and played 40 times on loan for the Jambos last season as Robbie Neilson's side finished third in the SPL.

According to FootballScotland, Paul Ince, Michael Beale at QPR and Mark Robins at Coventry City were all interested but the Edinburgh-based side are set to beat the Championship teams to his signature.

It looked unlikely for the Royals as he would've commanded a fee after Graham Potter recently extended his contrat at the AMEX, something the club can't do due to EFL transfer embargo restrictions.

A versatile defender, the report claims that Cochrane spent most of his spell at Tynecastle at left-back, a role which Reading are yet to fill, although he can play higher up in midifeld.

READ MORE: Reading FC to miss out on defender, according to reports

This news come just weeks after it broke that target Jack Tucker opted to join League One MK Dons over Reading due to an inability to  agree on a financial package.

Just 13 senior players are signed on at the SCL Stadium ahead of what looks to be a difficult campaign in Berkshire.