29 August 2017
By Hob Nob Anyone?
Reading have wrapped up the signing of Fulham's Sone Aluko for what is being reported as a huge 7.5 million pound transfer fee. It is likely some of that figure will relate to future performances and will depend on Aluko's stay at the club. However, Aluko has been given plenty of time to impress after negotiating a four year deal with the Royals. Fan opinion is mixed with Aluko known as a fast and skillful player but not the big goalscorer we were expecting to sign during this transfer window. Given the figures involved in the deal big things will be expected from Aluko. It will be interesting to see his role in the side alongside our collection of other wide forward players.
Stam has been chasing Aluko for some time, and the rumour has been circulating widely for well over a month. Stam is clearly pleased to have finally got his signature: "With his pace and ability on the ball, he can make life difficult for every opponent we face. He poses a threat going forward, he keeps the ball well, he can play as a striker or out on the wing and I am sure he will improve us as a squad."
It is the first big money move for Aluko who has played for Birmingham, Aberdeen, Blackpool, Rangers, Hull, and Fulham. One of his longest stays was with Aberdeen where he clocked up nearly 100 appearances, and scored nine goals over 3 seasons. He spent four years at Hull but found himself frequently used as a substitute, before a move to Fulham last summer where he played virtually the entire season - including four matches against Reading giving Stam plenty of time to see the player. He was on the scoresheet back in December 2016 when he scored one of Fulham's five goals in their thrasing of the Royals.
Aluko follows 31 year old Dave Edwards to the Madejski Stadium as Stam continues to expand his squad. Edwards, who arrives from Championship side Wolves is yet another midfielder and appears to have been signed to bring some experience into Stam's young squad. Edwards is a current Welsh international and has signed a two year contract with Reading. After previously playing for Shrewsbury and Luton, Edwards spent 10 years at Wolves making over 300 appearances and finding the back of the net 44 goals.
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