Reading FC are on the verge of completing a season-long loan deal for Espanyol midfielder Alex Fernandez, according to Get Reading.

Clarke looks set to add Fernandez to his side
Clarke looks set to add Fernandez to his side

The 22-year old has been in England for a medical a few days ago, with an official announcement from the Sky Bet Championship club expected in the coming hours.

An option to make his contract permanent will be part of the deal and would reportedly cost the Royals around £1.3 million.

Espanyol President Joan Collet confirmed last week that the transfer was being finalised.

“We’re now exchanging documents for the loan,” he said. “It’s a loan for one year, for this season.

“Reading then have the option to buy Alex, but it’s not obligatory.”

A Real Madrid academy graduate, Fernandez caught the eye when the two clubs met in a pre-season friendly at the Madejski Stadium two weeks ago - his attacking-minded style and all-round game make him a perfect addition to Steve Clarke.

Having played 100 games for Madrid - only one came with the first team- the former Spanish U20 international moved to Espanyol in 2013, where he was loaned out to Croatian side HNK Rejika for the second half of last season.

Fernandez will be Reading’s ninth signing and the second this week, after the capture of Peruvian winger Paolo Hurtado.

The duo might make their debut as soon as the next game against Leeds United on Sunday.

Reading were defeated 2-1 in their first Sky Bet Championship match against Birmingham City at St Andrews last Saturday, in what turned out to be a highly entertaining match, with the Royals hitting the crossbar three times, and them missing a last minute penalty that would have earned the Berkshire club a draw.

Reading FC fans...... What do you make of this news? Do you need a new attacking midfielder? Let us know your thoughts and opinions in the comments below!