READING FC could be highly active in the January transfer window as they scout the world for ‘some little diamonds.’

“The ultimate goal for this window is to reduce the size of the squad and improving the quality,” stated boss Paul Clement.

“We always talk about our priorities and where we need to strengthen. I won’t say what they are because it’s not fair on this group of players who still have the opportunity to work and show their ability.

“We have private conversations. We’re not going to change everybody, it’s unrealistic and wouldn’t be right to do that in the middle of the season.

“But there are some things we can do.”

A host of fringe players could be heading for the exit door when the January window opens.

The likes of Pelle Clement, Callum Harriott and Adrian Popa – who are set to feature for the Under 23s against Fulham at Woking tonight (7pm) – may be moved on along with midfielder Dave Edwards, who is returning from a lengthy injury lay-off.

That would free up some wages for Clement to spend on new players to help his team pull away from relegation danger.

Reading have won four of their 17 Championship games so far to leave them 20th in the table and they are only out of the relegation zone on goal difference.

He added: “Gianluca Nani (sporting director) and his scouting team are trawling the country, Europe and the world for some little diamonds that are good value and the right fit for the club.

“We will then whittle it down before making decisions, but we’re not at that stage yet.”

Clement is adamant that having no chef executive at the club following Ron Gourlay's departure will not impact on his ability to act in the transfer window.

He also confirmed some players will be leaving the Madejski Stadium in the new year.

“It’s absolutely necessary we do that for the good of this club and the squad and for the individual players who are not getting the pitch-time they need,” he said.

“Football is a short career so you can’t be stagnating somewhere for too long, you’ve got to move on and play somewhere else where you can maximise your opportunities, so there will be players moving out.”

Reading’s first game since the international break is this Saturday when they take on Wigan at DW Stadium (3pm ko).

The squad will stay in the north before travelling to Leeds United for Tuesday night’s clash at Elland Road (7.45pm ko).