Reading were reportedly on the verge of completing a deal for Argentine striker Mauro Marconato according to The Reading Chronicle, but the same publication has now claimed that the player’s agent has distanced his client from a move to to the Berkshire club.

Marconato and his agent were present as Reading beat Millwall 3-1 in the Carabao Cup, but his agent has suggested that the player was only at the game as ‘part of his private life’.

The Patronato forward has been in England enjoying trials with a number of clubs in the English game, but Reading are now said to not be one of the clubs to have offered the player a trial.

The 21-year-old is held in high regard in his homeland, and a series of impressive performances in the Argentinian top flight with Patronato has attracted the interest of several sides based in England.

Reading boss Jaap Stam has been left frustrated in his pursuit of a new striker, and the news that Marconato isn’t on the Dutchman’s radar will come as a disappointment to Reading fans hoping to see a new name announced soon.

The Verdict: It appears that Marconato isn’t yet linked with a move to the Royals, with his agent very quick to stress that his client has not been in contact with Stam’s side.

As is the nature of football, this could all just be a ploy to distract the public from an ulterior motive, and an agent seeking a better deal for his client in English football.

Marconato is obviously in England for something, and a move to the English game certainly seems on the cards if trials at other clubs have indeed materialised.

Stam may consider the player now he has been brought to his attentions, but it is worth biding our time to see exactly what is going on with this transfer, considering the contradictory reports coming out of Berkshire this morning.

Marconato may not be on the cards, but you still need a striker. Who would you sign, Reading fans?