Reading striker Sam Baldock will not take a pay cut if he is to leave the club this summer, it is understood.

The 30-year-old ex-Premier League forward was among a group of first-team players told their time at Madejski Stadium was over by manager Jose Gomes.

He is the only member of the group involved in the club’s pre-season and newly-promoted Charlton Athletic showed interest in signing him, which was reported on by the Chronicle yesterday.

However, the Chronicle understands Baldock told Reading FC he will not leave unless his wages are paid in full, casting serious doubts over a potential move to The Valley.

Baldock, who has two years remaining on his contract, was among a number of players handed significant salary packages while former chief executive Ron Gourlay was at the helm of the club.

Royals eased their financial problems yesterday (Monday) when they sold Liam Kelly to former boss Jaap Stam’s Feyenoord in a cut-price deal.

Gomes wants to sign up to four players this summer and remains keen on bringing Liverpool’s Ovie Ejaria back to Berkshire on loan.

The Portuguese has urged the exiled squad members and their agents to secure moves as soon as possible.

Jon Dadi Bodvarsson is considering offers from Millwall and Greece while long-serving winger Garath McCleary has drawn interest from the USA.

Young goalkeeper Luke Southwood also looks set to depart and Sam Smith, who was also left out of the pre-season tour, can also seek pastures new.

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