Reading FC boss Paul Ince claimed that Lucas Joao is ‘going nowhere’ amid transfer interest from West Bromwich Albion.
Reports emerged this week that the Baggies are interested in pursuing a move for Joao, who has been linked with several clubs this summer.
Due to the Royals’ transfer embargo and financial situation, the Royals may be tempted to cash in on the forward, but Ince is determined to keep hold of Joao.
Speaking after Reaidng’s win over Middlesbrough when questioned about the rumours surrounding West Brom’s interest, Ince said: “No news whatsoever, Lucas (Joao) is going nowhere.
“I don’t know why these rumours come up.
“Since pre-season and even before pre-season when I was in Barbados on holiday there were rumours about him going, but it isn’t happening, that’s it.”
Joao has become a pivotal figure in Berkshire since arriving from Sheffield Wednesday in August 2019 for around £5million.
His first season at Reading was interrupted by injury but he managed to score six goals in 19 league games.
The following season under Veljko Paunovic saw Joao flourish as his goals had the Royals in contention for the play-offs for the entire season, until they missed out late on.
He contributed 19 goals in 39 Championship games in the 2020/21 season.
A hip injury kept Joao on the sidelines for more than five months at the beginning of the 2021/22 season.
But he returned from the long term injury and displayed excellent form to help the Royals in their fight against relegation.
Joao netted 10 times in 21 games and was awarded the EFL Player of the Month award for February.
