Reading Football Club has been served with a winding-up petition by a former chief executive, according to a report in The Telegraph.
The newspaper says former Reading chief executive Nigel Howe has submitted the petition amid a dispute with the League One club. The move could, in theory, lead to liquidation if the matter is not resolved.
Reading Football Club confirmed it is involved in an ongoing disagreement with Mr Howe but rejected the claims being made against it.
In a statement to The Telegraph, the club said: “The club denies the allegations and is in an active dispute with the individual concerned. Due to the potential for legal proceedings, it would be inappropriate to comment further at this time.”
Mr Howe previously held a senior executive role at Reading and was involved in the club’s recent sale, which was completed earlier this year following prolonged financial difficulties under the previous ownership.
The club was taken over in May by new American owners after months of uncertainty, during which Reading were hit with points deductions and placed under financial restrictions.
The latest development is likely to raise further concern among supporters, many of whom have already endured a turbulent period both on and off the pitch.
Neither Mr Howe nor the English Football League has commented publicly on the report.
