Reading FC have missed out on bringing striker Dom Ballard back to the club, who has now joined Blackpool on loan for the season.
The Royals had been interested in re-signing the forward, who had his last loan cut short by injury, but were unable to complete the deal due to the ongoing takeover saga.
Ballard joined up with Ruben Selles’ side last season and netted five times in 12 appearances before his season was put to an end with a serious knee injury which he picked up in an away win over Wycombe Wanderers.
After more than nine months on the sidelines, the promising Southampton striker will be looking to make his mark in League One again this year.
Upon joining Blackpool, Ballard said: “It’s a real honour to be here and I can’t wait to get started.
“I played at Bloomfield Road with Reading last season, and honestly the fans here made some of the best noise I’ve heard – the atmosphere was amazing. “Those things make a big difference, and once I knew a Club the size of Blackpool were interested, I was really keen to make the move.
““It was gutting how my time at Reading last season ended earlier than expected, as I felt I was really pushing on. I’m now ready for the new season and want to make the same impression here at Blackpool.”
Reading are currently the only club in the entire Football League yet to make at least one loan or permanent signing,
The takeover deal for Rob Couhig to buy the club from Dai Yongge is expected to be completed in the coming weeks.