Leeds United and Crystal Palace have joined the race to sign Reading striker Danny Loader, according to reports from the Daily Mail.

The 19-year-old came through the ranks at the Madejski Stadium, but now faces an uncertain future in Berkshire with his contract set to expire next month.

Loader - an England under-20 international - has made 35 first-team appearances across all competitions for the Royals, scoring two goals.

The young forward has made seven Championship appearances under Mark Bowen this season, with another five appearances coming in cup competitions.

But with his contract set to expire at the end of next month, the Daily Mail reports that Leeds United, Crystal Palace and Swansea City are interested in signing Loader on a free transfer.

Reading would be due some compensation as the forward came through the club’s academy system, but the Royals have withdrew a fresh contract offer worth £9,000-a-week due to their financial situation amid current events.

The Verdict

Leeds could really do with another up and coming forward to help bolster their attacking options for the future, and Loader looks to be a really exciting player.

It would be a coup to lure him to Elland Road given that two big clubs in Palace and Wolves are reportedly interested and it promises to be a busy summer for the striker.

It’s a real shame for Reading if they were to lose him as he is a player with serious potential.