Reading remain 'hopeful' of being able to offer exclusivity in the coming days ahead of a takeover as four official bids are pondered by owner Dai Yongge.

Officially up for sale since October, numerous names have been linked with taking over the club as Mr Yongge looks to get out.

Sitting 10 points adrift of safety at the bottom of League One, supporters have spent the last three months campaigning against the Chinese businessman following 16 points being deducted, late wages, missed tax and years of transfer embargoes.

National press had reported that Yongge has returned to the country to partake in takeover talks, with at least two parties interested.

The Reading Chronicle can confirm that four official bids are on the table and are being mulled over by Mr Yongge, with the intention of offering exclusivity in the coming days.

Sources at the club who have spoken to the Reading Chronicle remain 'hopeful' of seeing progress by the start of next week.

Former Newcastle United owner Mike Ashley remains a name linked with the club, with his helicopter spotted at the SCL Stadium more than two weeks ago.