Reading FC’s attempt to strengthen their defence this month has suffered a setback, with a proposed move for experienced centre-back Ricardo Santos now appearing to be off the table.
The Royals had been hopeful of concluding a January deal for Ricardo Santos, but reports suggest negotiations have stalled at a late stage, leaving Reading FC still searching for defensive reinforcements.
According to Football League World, the deal is believed to have broken down following a medical issue, although there has been no official confirmation from either club. As is often the case with collapsed transfers, the precise reasons behind the move failing are unlikely to be made public, leaving Reading to reassess their plans with the January window already underway.
Santos had emerged as a leading target for Reading as manager Leam Richardson looked to add experience and depth to his back line. The 30-year-old centre-back, currently on the books at Swansea City, has struggled for consistent game time since arriving in south Wales last summer and was open to a move that would offer regular football.
With more than 200 Football League appearances to his name, the former Bolton Wanderers captain was viewed as a reliable option for a Reading side that has, at times, lacked consistency defensively. His leadership qualities and experience at League One level made him an attractive proposition as the Royals attempt to maintain their position in the top half of the table and keep pace in the play-off race.
Reading’s January business had begun positively with the arrival of forward Will Keane, who joined on loan from Preston North End until the end of the season. That deal underlined the club’s intent to strengthen in key areas, and the pursuit of Santos suggested that defensive additions were also a priority.
Injury concerns have only heightened that need. Derrick Williams has been sidelined, prompting Manchester City loanee Finley Burns to step in, and while Burns has acquitted himself well, Richardson is understood to be keen on adding another senior centre-back to provide balance and competition.
With the Santos deal now seemingly shelved, attention is likely to turn elsewhere as Reading scan the market for alternatives. Time remains for the Royals to act, but with fixtures continuing to arrive thick and fast, the need for defensive clarity is becoming increasingly pressing.
Reading return to action on Saturday when they host Leyton Orient at the Select Car Leasing Stadium, with Richardson hoping developments off the pitch do not distract from matters on it.
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