Talks are underway between the two Premier League new boys as Hammers look to bring in some cash after a summer of spending
Rouble rouser: Reading are eager to spend their Russian gajillions on Cole
Mark Thompson
Reading are preparing to move for West Ham striker Carlton Cole in what would be one of their most-expensive transfers ever.
Brian McDermott’s Royals have opened talks to land the England target man, who is available from Sam Allardyce’s club following their own summer spending spree.
The Russian-backed Premier League new boys will pay a fee rising to £5million for Cole, as well as picking up his salary – which is close to another£3m a season.
It is a major break from the policy of sensible signings in Reading’s recent past, but there is enough cash for a dip into the market that could make them fortunes if they survive in the top flight until next term, when a massive new TV deal kicks in.
Cole has had fitness problems and the fee will include staged payments, but there is a good chance that the full value will be achieved if he is a Royals regular.
The 28-year-old forward has been available for weeks as part of the Irons’ busy wheeling and dealing.
Cole was in and out of the Hammers’ promotion-winning Championship side last term.
And Reading will try and finalise a deal this weekend, ahead of the transfer window shutting.
Interesting.
