Reading are keen on Newcastle United youngster Garang Kuol, according to reports.

The 18-year-old signed a pre-contract agreement with the North-East giants in September, linking up with the Tyneside outfit this month.

Fresh from scoring twice, and gaining three assists, for Central Coast Mariners in the Australian A-League, Eddie Howe revealed that he wants the teenager to gain more experience.

Speaking on the youngster, Howe said: "I do think for the player’s development he probably needs to go and play if possible at a very good level at a good club and good coach."

Not only catching the eye at club level, he featured three times for the Socceroos at the 2022 World Cup, becoming the youngster player in the knockout match since Pele in 1958.

According to journalist Ross Heppenstall, the Royals are interested in taking the 'wonderkid' on loan, but face competition from Scottish Premiership outfit Hearts.

With five loanees already, including fellow Magpie Jeff Hendrick, a sixth would mean that one has to miss out each matchday.

However, boss Paul Ince has admitted that it is something he would not be opposed to doing this.

Currently at the maximum squad capacity of 25, there would need to be outgoings before this was possible.