Reading complete Akpan signing

Reading have completed the signing of Crawley midfielder Hope Akpan, for a fee around £300,000.

The 21-year old completed his move to the Madejski Stadium yesterday and he signs on a three-and-a-half year deal. Akpan also played in the reserves 3-1 victory against QPR on Tuesday afternoon, just hours after completing the deal. Director of Football Nicky Hammond has spoken of his delight to secure the young talent.

Speaking to the Reading FC Official site, Hammond said: 'It is very important we continue to identify and develop young players that we feel can play at this level, both from our own Academy and also from outside the club. We are delighted to have signed Hope and I would also like to thank Steve Coppell for his assistance in completing this deal.'

McDermott was interested in Akpan before our FA Cup game with the Red Devils and his solid performance in that encounter was the icing on the cake. As I mentioned yesterday, I can only assume that the deal to sign Tom Rogic has hit the rocks in recent days, as we don't particularly need another option in centre midfield now.

Wiki page: Hope Akpan

Click here to join in the debate on the club forum.