READING FC boss Jose Gomes admits Sone Aluko’s move to China was good business for the club and player.

Aluko has joined Chinese Super League club Beijing Renhe on loan for the remainder of 2019.

Royals’ club-record £7m signing signed before the league’s February transfer window closed and is now part of their pre-season campaign.

Gomes explained how letting go of Aluko made sounds business sense by bringing the club in line with Financial Fair Play regulations.

“We are living under Financial Fair Play so for him I suppose it is a very good thing with his salary and financial conditions,” said the Portuguese manager. “For the club it will help a lot because his are important numbers in our budget.

“I think it was the best solution for everybody. His loan will finish in January. Maybe if he plays well over there they will give him more money and more money to Reading, but it’s speculation right now.”

Aluko’s contract with Reading runs out in June 2021, but he could turn his loan with Beijing Renhe into a permanent move at the end of the year.

Beijing Renhe also belongs to Reading FC owners Dai Yongge and sister Dai Xiu Li, as does Belgium club KSV Roeselare where ex-Royals technical director, Brian Tevreden, is now chief executive.

Gomes also explained how he is trying to balance the books following a major clear out in January and the arrival of five loan signings for the rest of the season.

“We are taking very good steps regarding this, if you see the number of players we have moved on or tried to loan to reduce the number of players in the squad,” he stated. “The idea must be the same.

“We must bring in very good quality players, reduce the numbers and create space for the Academy players. This way Financial Fair Play will be solved.”

Gomes also covered a range of topics in yesterday’s press conference at Hogwood Park ahead of tomorrow’s vital clash at Ipswich Town (3pm ko).