With Alex Pearce set to depart for Derby County, Reading are looking for a defender to replace Pearce and have singled out Paul McShane as their top priority.
McShane has recently been released by relegated Hull City last month and hasn’t had a shortage of potential suitors, with Reading seemingly leading the way.
Royals boss Steve Clarke flew out to Dublin this week in order to talk to McShane about a potential move to the Madejski Stadium.
The 29 year-old Republic of Ireland international started his career with Manchester United, although failed to make an appearance for the Red Devils during four years with the club despite being part of the squad that won the FA Youth Cup in 2002-03.
A £2.5 million move to West Brom, where he achieved promotion to the Premier League, preceded a short stay with fellow Premier League side Sunderland.
Moving to his last club Hull in 2008, McShane had played over 125 games for the Tigers before his release last month, achieving promotion to the Premier League in 2012-13.
