Reading FC are exploring making a move for Portsmouth midfielder Matt Ritchie this transfer window.
The35-year-old has expressed a desire to leave Fratton Park this summer due to concerns over playing time and the south coast club could be prepared to let him leave on a free transfer, according to journalist Neil Allen from The News.
Despite Reading’s interest in bringing the experienced former Premier League player to Berkshire, there has also been interest from Championship teams.
Reading have already brought former Pompey player Paddy Lane to the club after purchasing him for an undisclosed fee which was finalised last week.
Ritchie has vast experience in both the EFL and also the Premier League.
Having started his career at Portsmouth, he went on to play for Dagenham & Redbridge, Notts County and Swindon Town before playing a pivotal role in Bournemouth’s rise through the divisions.
He had an exceptional campaign in the 2014/15 season as he netted 15 Championship goals to help the Cherries win promotion to the top flight.
He then played one season in the Premier League for Bournemouth where he scored four times before he left to join Newcastle United.
He scored 12 times in the Championship as he helped the Magpies regain promotion to the Premier League and then went on to play more than 215 in all competitions for the club.
Ritchie then rejoined Portsmouth last summer and scored five goals in 39 Championship appearances.
