Reading manager Leam Richardson has admitted that the club have missed out on some of their transfer targets this summer as they continue to search for more defensive recruits.

The Royals have endured a mixed start to the new season, although they are still searching for their first league win. They blew a 3-1 lead on the opening day against Luton Town to eventually lose 4-3. This was followed by a 0-0 draw with AFC Wimbledon on Saturday.

Despite that, Reading secured a spot in the Carabao Cup third round last night with a comfortable 3-0 win at Stevenage. This followed their first round victory over Bromley earlier this month, which was sealed via a penalty shootout.

Reading Squad Still Needs Strengthening

The Berkshire-based club have added six names to their squad this summer, which includes attackers Jacob Brown, George Earthy, Kyreece Lisbie and Josh Stokes. Conor Masterson and Udoka Godwin-Malife have bolstered the defensive line, but it is no secret that they are keen to add another player or two to each department.

It was claimed last week that a deal is being explored for Wrexham centre-back Dan Scarr, although they are said to be facing competition from a number of clubs. The 31-year-old could be allowed to depart the Championship outfit before next week’s transfer deadline having been an unused substitute in all of the Red Dragons’ opening three games.

Richardson Makes Admission On Missed Targets

Following last night’s victory over Stevenage, Reading boss Richardson was asked if fans can expect any transfer activity over the coming week. Speaking to BBC Radio Berkshire, the 46-year-old said:

“We’ve got some offensive players on the pitch now that carry goals and we need to add a little bit to that as well.”

Continuing, the former Rotherham United manager admitted that some of their transfer targets haven’t materialised:

“We’ve obviously missed out on a few, there’s some moving parts within that and I’ll always want more because I want the best for this football club.

“We’ve got to evolve and move forward, our recruitment team have been working hard all summer alongside me to make the best decisions for this football club.”

Reading’s next fixture will see them host Mansfield Town next Wednesday. They were originally due to travel to Oxford United on Saturday, although the game was rescheduled to Tuesday, 8th September after a request from Thames Valley Police due to a number of local events over the Bank Holiday weekend.