A free agent spotted in the players’ box during Reading FC’s penalty shootout win over Wycombe Wanderers has added to speculation over a possible move to the Royals.
The defender was Conor Masterson, who has remained around the club after featuring during Reading’s pre-season preparations.
Masterson is currently a free agent and was given an opportunity to impress manager Leam Richardson during the summer.
The 27-year-old played in Reading’s final pre-season friendly against Charlton Athletic at The Valley, with the Royals winning 3-0. He was identified as the trialist used in central defence during the match.
His presence at Tuesday night’s EFL Trophy fixture against Wycombe is therefore likely to attract attention from Reading supporters.
While the transfer window is still open with Reading likely to make more signings, they would be able to sign Masterson at any time as he is a free agent.
Masterson watched on from the players’ box as Reading drew 1-1 with Wycombe before winning the resulting penalty shootout 3-1.
There has been no confirmation that Reading have offered Masterson a contract, but his continued involvement around the club is likely to fuel speculation that manager Leam Richardson could be considering bringing him in.
Masterson joined up with Reading during pre-season after leaving Gillingham at the end of the 2025/26 campaign.
He had spent three spells with Gillingham, making 112 appearances and scoring nine goals. The club confirmed in June 2025 that he had signed a one-year contract extension, which took him through to the summer of 2026.
The centre-back came through Liverpool’s academy before beginning his senior career with Queens Park Rangers.
His experience of League One and the Championship could make him an option for Richardson as Reading continue to assess their squad.
The defender’s appearance against Charlton was particularly notable because the fixture was played behind closed doors at The Valley after the original match at Reading was moved because of the condition of the Royals’ new pitch.
Masterson played 61 minutes in the 3-0 victory and was subsequently identified as the trialist.
The Royals have made four additions to their squad this summer, but Richardson has admitted that he is keen for the club to add more players.
Reading opened their League One campaign with a 4-3 defeat by Luton Town before Tuesday’s EFL Trophy victory over Wycombe.
The defensive options have also been tested during pre-season, with Richardson using a number of different combinations.
Masterson’s experience could therefore provide additional competition at centre-back if Reading decide to make his trial permanent.
For now, though, Masterson remains a free agent and no deal has been announced.
