Reading have offered a week-long trial to Matt Ridenton of A-League side Newcastle Jets, according to Berkshire Live.

It has been reported that the 23-year-old midfielder who has been capped six times by New Zealand will spend the next five days training with the first-team squad at their Hogwood Park complex as he looks to earn a deal with the club.

His current team, Newcastle Jets, have granted him a short period of leave, as confirmed in a statement by the New South Wales side.

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"Newcastle Jets can advise that midfielder, Matt Ridenton has been granted a week’s leave of absence to pursue an opportunity overseas," it read.

"The Kiwi international is currently on trial with an EFL Championship club."

Born in Auckland, Ridenton started at his hometown club, Auckland City, before moving to Wellington Phoenix in 2013.

He made 73 appearances in five years with the Phoenix, scoring four goals. The 23-year-old then moved on to Newcastle Jets in May 2018.

So far this season, Ridenton has made ten appearances for the Jets, playing a total of 558 minutes of football. The side currently sit at the foot of the A-League table with nine points from 12 games.

The Verdict

Trials rarely materialise, but this is an interesting situation for Reading, as they must see something in Ridenton to bring him to the club from the A-League.

The 23-year-old would add competition to the midfield if he impresses enough to earn a contract, with his preferred role being as a holding midfielder.

Reading are yet to make a signing during this transfer window, and a successful trial period for Ridenton could see the club announce his signature next week.