Reading FC have missed out on the chance to sign defender Ricardo Santos after the former Bolton Wanderers captain completed a move to Sheffield Wednesday.
The centre-back had previously been a target for the Royals, who agreed a fee with Swansea City to sign the player during the January transfer window.
However, the proposed move broke down before it could be completed, with Santos remaining with the Swans for the remainder of the season.
Santos has now opted to join League One side Sheffield Wednesday instead, ending any hopes of Reading reviving their interest this summer.
The 31-year-old made more than 200 appearances for Bolton after joining from Peterborough United in 2020 and established himself as one of League One’s most consistent defenders during his time with the club.
His move to Hillsborough is another reminder of the competition Reading face in the transfer market as they prepare for another campaign in League One.
While a number of rivals have already begun strengthening their squads following the opening of the transfer window, Reading are yet to make a new signing this summer.
The club’s only piece of business so far has been agreeing a new deal with midfielder Andy Rinomhota. He re-joined Reading on a short term deal last season but struggled for game time under manager Leam Richardson.
Supporters are still waiting for the club’s first new arrival of the summer, with the club expected to target reinforcements across several areas of the squad ahead of pre-season.
Reading’s interest in Santos highlighted a desire to add experience and leadership to the back line, but the defender will now play for a fellow League One team as Wednesday target a return to the Championship having been relegated last season.
The Royals continue to assess potential transfer targets as preparations for the 2026/27 season gather pace.
