Former Reading FC striker Shane Long has reportedly emerged as a transfer target for the club this summer.
The Republic of Ireland international is set to become a free agent later this month when his contract at Southampton expires which could make him a viable option for the Royals.
Long became a fans favourite during his first spell in Berkshire after he joined as a relatively unknown prospect from Cork City in 2005.
Having been an understudy in his earlier days to the likes of Dave Kitson, Leroy Lita and fellow countryman Kevin Doyle, Long eventually established himself as the main main up top.
Having scored three goals in 11 appearances in his first season at the club which helped Reading on their way to their first ever top flight promotion in 2005/06, Long netted five times in two seasons in the Premier League.
His best goal scoring season with the Royals came in 2010/11 when they fell at the final hurdle in the Championship play-off finals in a campaign where Long netted 25 times in all competitions.
His excellent form saw him on the radar for several Premier League where he eventually got a move to West Bromwich Albion.
A three season stint with West Brom was followed by a short time at Hull City before Long was picked up by Southampton.
Long became a reliable Premier League striker and spent eight seasons with the Saints and netted 37 goals in all competitions where he made almost 250 appearances for the South Coast club.
Southampton manager Ralph Hasenhuttl believes Long still has the ability and fitness to be a valuable asset for another club.
He said:: “From the physical side it is definitely possible for him to keep on going in the summer, definitely.
“He is very robust and when you are so quick, you lose a little bit when you get older, but still quick enough for playing as a striker.
“It is no coincidence that he has played so many games in the Premier League.”
