Reading FC are close to completing a loan move for Preston North End striker Will Keane as they look to strengthen their squad in January.
The 33-year-old forward, who plays for Preston in the Championship, is understood to be on the verge of agreeing terms to join Reading on a temporary basis until the end of the 2025/26 campaign.
Keane, a former Republic of Ireland international and Manchester United academy graduate, joined Preston on a permanent deal in July 2023 and went on to become the club’s top scorer in the 2023/24 season. He has made nearly 80 appearances for the Deepdale side, scoring regularly across his spells with the club and bringing valuable experience to the front line.
Keane is in search of more regular first-team football having only had limited minutes with Preston this season, while Richardson wants more depth to call upon in his squad.
Keane’s familiarity with Richardson’s management style, having played under him previously during his time at Wigan Athletic, is seen as a key factor in the reported move. Reading are expected to finalise the loan agreement subject to medical and personal terms in the coming days.
