READING made their first signing of the summer transfer window as they secured the season-long loan of young Everton goalkeeper Joao Virginia.
The 19-year-old shot-stopper impressed last season with Everton U23’s as he helped them to a league and cup double in his debut season having joined last season from Arsenal.
The Portuguese keeper has flown out to meet up with the rest of the first-team squad as they continue their pre-season preparations in Spain, where they face Sevilla on Saturday evening.
“It’s a pleasure to be a part of such a historical club, I’m so happy and thrilled to be here,” Virginia told the Reading FC official club website.
“The manager and I spoke before, he trusts in me and he convinced me to come here. I can’t wait to get started.
“I don’t think my age counts because, if you see me play, you won’t recognise my age. When you see the quality and the work I put into my game, that’s all that matters.”
The Royals triumphed with an emphatic 10-0 win against Gibraltar in their first pre-season game during their two week trip in Spain.
Jose Gomes said: “Joao is a gifted young goalkeeper who grew up learning his trade at one of the greatest clubs in Portugal and has since impressed in English football as part of Arsenal and Everton Under-23’s. I am delighted he will now get an opportunity to fight for first team football as a Royal.”
