Reading boss Brian McDermott says Royals striker Simon Church could join one of four or five interested clubs on loan. The Blues have been mentioned in connection with the Wales international on a number of occasions over the last fortnight with Huddersfield and Nottingham Forest also believed to be amongst those eyeing the 23-year-old.
McDermott said: "I’ve spoken to Churchy and he has four or five options, so we will have to watch this space. There is a possibility that he will go out and play some games — it will be a loan.”
Speaking yesterday, Town boss Paul Jewell refused to comment on the links with Church: "We’ve agreed [a deal for Guirane N’Daw] with St Etienne, so I think I’m entitled to speak about that.
"I wouldn’t want to jeopardise anything [else] that might or might not happen, but we are in for good players.”
Church joined Reading’s youth set-up from hometown club Wycombe Wanderers when a schoolboy and has progressed through the ranks to the first team having been sent out for loan spells at Crewe, Yeovil, Wycombe and Leyton Orient.
Last season, the 5ft 11in tall frontman netted seven goals in 21 starts and 12 sub appearances but may find it harder to win a place in the side after the Royals’ return to the Premier League.
Jewell has been looking to add a bigger striker to his squad since the end of last season and missed out on number one target Steve Davies, who joined Bristol City from Derby County.
Meanwhile, Town target Darcy Blake has joined Crystal Palace from Cardiff City for £400,000, the Welsh international defender signing a three-year deal.